Designing embedded systems using patterns: a case study

  • Authors:

  • Michael J. Pont;Mark P. Banner

  • Affiliations:

  • Control & Instrumentation Research Group, Department of Engineering, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK;Control & Instrumentation Research Group, Department of Engineering, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK

  • Venue:
  • Journal of Systems and Software - Special issue: Computer systems
  • Year:
  • 2004

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Abstract

If software for embedded processors is based on a time-triggered architecture, using co-operative task scheduling, the resulting system can have very predictable behaviour. Such a system characteristic is highly desirable in many applications, including (but not restricted to) those with safety-related or safety-critical functions. In practice, a time-triggered, co-operatively scheduled (TTCS) architecture is less widely employed than might be expected, not least because care must be taken during the design and implementation of such systems if the theoretically predicted behaviour is to be obtained. In this paper, we argue that the use of appropriate 'design patterns' can greatly simplify the process of creating TTCS systems. We briefly explain the origins of design patterns. We then illustrate how an appropriate set of patterns can be used to facilitate the development of a non-trivial embedded system.