A novel codesign methodology for real-time embedded COTS multiprocessor-based signal processing systems

Abstract

The process of designing large real-time embedded signal processing systems is plagued by a lack of coherent specification and design methodology (SDM). Powerful frameworks exist for each individual phase of this canonical design process, but no single methodology exists which enables these frameworks to work together coherently, i.e., allowing the output of a framework used in one phase to be consumed by a different framework used in the next phase. A specification and design methodology (SDM) known as "Search-Explore-Refine" (SER) was developed by Gajski, Vahid, et al. for an application and technology domain that is different from that of real-time embedded signal processing systems implemented with commercial-off-the-shelf multiprocessing hardware and software. However, due to similarities between the fundamental design objects of these two domains, a new SDM was developed and prototyped based on SER known as the MAGIC SDM. The "tools and rules" of the MAGIC SDM are presented. The MAGIC SDM achieves a high degree of model continuity based largely on its use of standardsbased computation (VSIPL) and communication (MPI) middleware.

A novel codesign approach based on distributed virtual machines

“…Randall S. Janka [7] developed a new specification and design methodology which effectively allows the designer to evaluate candidate architectures and technologies before committing to a technology. This methodology is called MAGIC which stands for the 'methodology applying generation, integration, and continuity'.…”