Digital Revolution
Currently, Novatron use Qt's framework for the machine control systems of their heavy-duty equipment.
The aim is that data flows seamlessly in a computer-readable manner from one software system to another and from one phase of a construction project to another. Novatron's focus is to guide and help their users, who usually work in earthmoving and construction, to use the machinery in the easiest and safest way possible. The ability to create visualizations based on sensor data gives a whole new dimension to projects that often require careful handling of heavy equipment and extensive planning.
Excitingly, Novatron are launching an entry-level machine control product (2D) developed on Qt at the bauma Construction Machinery Trade Fair in October 2022.
They're also looking to launch an MPU-based device in 2023. Watch this space for updates!
An a-Qt need for change
Before moving to Qt, Novatron was using a Windows-based system, which was doing the job, but required a fair amount of maintenance work and had a myriad of legacy features. The team found Qt's system easy and convenient to use, both internally and externally. Through Qt, they were able to eliminate unwanted legacy features, and combine everything within one functional framework, combining Linux and Qt.
For Novatron, Qt was particularly useful for its user interface: it allowed for the creation of a modern GUI with good UX for the custom-embedded devices without foregoing any high-end measurement features. Qt also enabled them to scale quickly and flexibly to a variety of environments.
For their users, who are operators of heavy machinery, simplicity within the UI and UX was key, both for ease of use and for safety reasons. Various elements needed to be clearly and conveniently laid out, so that there was little room for error or danger. With Qt, the elements they required were already in the system, and Novatron was able to create a UI that works for everyone.
Novatron's favourite things about Qt:
- Qt for MCUs QM-based GUI controls can be easily implemented so that they work nicely with various screen resolutions
- Qt for MCUs GUI with touch interface enables a rich user experience with relatively low-cost hardware
- Developing a modern GUI with Qt for MCUs is very flexible and components can be reused easily. Developing similar UX with other available GUI frameworks could take 3-4 times more effort than Qt for MCUs
- QML is a great language for defining the GUI and the property bindings, and signaling system works seamlessly with C++
- The GUI code is relatively effective especially for embedded devices with ready-made GUI elements that can be customized and localized easily
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