In this paper we describe a vision for the future evolution of Embedded SW (ESW) design methodologies as part of overall Embedded Systems (ES) development. Fundamentally, we believe that the way in which embedded SW is developed today must change radically. The key steps are: first, to link embedded upwards in the abstraction layers to system functionality; and second, to link embedded software to the programmable platforms that support it. This will provide the much-needed means to verify whether the constraints posed on Embedded Systems are met. We envisage an optimised, automated, transparent and mathematically correct flow from product specification through to implementation for SW-dominated products implemented with highly programmable platforms.
Alberto L. Sangiovanni-Vincentelli, Grant Martin