Dataflow-like languages for real-time systems: issues of computational models and notation

Abstract

We discuss the use of dataflow-like models for the "in-the-large" design of real-time applications. In these models, modules can only communicate by (asynchronously) receiving messages when activated and transmitting result messages when terminating. This rather restrictive computational rnodel allows the description of typical, cyclic control programs, with predictable, well-verifiable behaviour. In particular, important timing properties can be dealt with in the in-the-large design. We outline the case for the use of dataflow-like models, discuss the choice of appropriate notations, which implies a trade-ofJ between predictability of behaviour and expressive power, and the potential for an advanced design support environment.

Analysis of Temporal Properties of Data Flow Control Systems

“…Due to their distributed parallel and data-driven nature, control systems can be easily modelled by data ow networks. Data ow models have the advantages of a simple graphical representation data ow graphs, compactness, expressiveness of the parallelism inherent in the modelled system and others Bondavalli et al, 1992;Jagannathan and Ashcroft, 1991. Moreover, it is interesting to note that data ow concepts have been considered as an appropriate means of organising real-time processing Lent and Kurmann, 1989;Takesue, 1990.…”

Analysis of temporal properties of data flow control systems

“…Data ow models have the advantages of a simple graphical representation data ow graphs, compactness, expressiveness of the parallelism inherent in the modelled system and others Bondavalli et al, 1992;Jagannathan and Ashcroft, 1991. Moreover, it is interesting to note that data ow concepts have been considered as an appropriate means of organising real-time processing Lent and Kurmann, 1989;Takesue, 1990.…”

Data Flow Control Systems: an Example of Safety Validation

“…Data flow is receiving great attention being known for its suitability for achieving a high degree of execution parallelism, thus allowing to improve performance, but has other useful characteristics as well. A data flow network is usually very close to the intuitive representation of a control system, that is the translation from the conceived system to a data flow graph is straightforward, as well as to inspect the data flow graph to determine which aspects of the system are represented [2], [3]. This makes data flow generally recognised as a convenient programming paradigm for the development of control systems.…”