Ensemble Embedded Software Integration Platform

We present a model-based, specification-driven embedded software integration platform (ESiP) we refer to as Ensemble. Its primary objective is to shorten the embedded systems life cycle, accelerating the path from conceptualization through design, development, testing, verification, and transition into production and maintenance. The platform achieves this objective by heavily relying on automation of model and code synthesis for portions of embedded software, which are not essential to the software's core functionality, but critical for the overall requirements of compatibility and interoperability of embedded applications with modern deployment ecosystems. This partially relieves the burden placed on embedded application developers. It allows them to focus on the application core without being overburdened by interoperability and portability constraints of their application, thus reducing the overall cost of the development process.

We introduce a new, declarative meta-language called Ensemble iSpec, which allows developers to define systems of systems, data type defintions, and build and deployment specifications. We then present Ensemble ESiP architecture which relies on iSpec for development and integration automation. We describe common workflows used in embedded system design automation using the Ensemble platform. We also work through a set of case studies illustrating how the platform helps in embedded system test and evaluation, integration, and deployment. We cover how it applies to the development of complex systems of systems, simultaneously targeting heterogeneous deployment environments consisting of real-time, embedded platforms, cloud computing platforms, as well as so-called “edge” segments bridging the gaps between "clouds and embedded boxes".