Integrating AADL and FMI to Extend Virtual Integration Capability

Virtual Integration Capability is paramount to perform early validation of Cyber Physical Systems. The objective is to guide the systems engineer so as to ensure that the system under design meets multiple criteria through high-fidelity simulation. In this paper, we present an integration scheme that leverages the FMI (Functional Mock-Up interface) standard and the AADL architecture description language. Their combination allows for validation of systems combining embedded platform captured by the AADL, and FMI components that represent physical elements, either mechanical parts, or the environment. We present one approach, and demonstrator case studies

EDUCATIONAL PROCESSOR

This report discusses the overview of the chosen project, which is an Educational Processor. The objective of this project is to develop a simple processor with TTL logic for educational purpose. This processor will be used as a learning tool for Computer System Architecture class. To complete this project, the scope of study will cover the computer system architecture and Central Processing Unit (CPU). The CPU datapath design and hardware circuit design is based on the MIPS single-cycle processor. The methodologies that will be involved in this project are design and validation phase, constructing the hardware and then interfacing phase through serial communication between CPU and a graphic user interface using microcontroller. The prototype would be used as a learning tool in Computer System Architecture class and to assist student in understanding the computer architecture

Application of Value Focused Thinking and Fuzzy Systems to Assess System Architecture

AbstractSince a majority of resources are obligated during the design phase of a system lifecycle, critical assessment of candidate functional and system architectures is vital to identify optimal architectures before proceeding to subsequent lifecycle phases. Common challenges associated with generation and evaluation of system functional architectures include search of the expansive design space and assessment of key performance attributes that are particularly “fuzzy” and qualitative in early architecture development. Several assessment approaches have been presented in the literature to address the assessment challenge to include Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Value-Focused Thinking (VFT), and fuzzy logic. In this research we combine the use of value functions and fuzzy assessment to assess a functional and system architecture. There are several benefits of a methodology that combines value-focused thinking and fuzzy assessment. A distinct advantage of the methodology presented is the explicit inclusion of the customer in the assessment process through validation of the TPM value functions Involving the customer in TPM value function development and validation ensures the customer has direct input regarding the TPMs and their associated value across the range of discourse The methodology presented is flexible enough to assess architectures early in the process when things are “fuzzy” as well as later when subsystem and component performance are well defined. The methodology can also be used to analyze and assess impacts of interface changes within the system architecture. . The methodology is domain independent and can be coupled with executable models linked to scenarios. The assessment methodology is applied to the architecture for a soldier knowledge acquisition system for which the key performance attributes are affordability, performance, flexibility, updateability, and availability

EDUCATIONAL PROCESSOR

This report discusses about the overview of the chosen project, which is an Educational Processor (EduCPU). The objective of this project is to develop a simple processor using TTL logic gates and also to develop simulation software for educational purpose. The software is responsible for sending instruction codes to the simple processor through serial communication in order to execute the instruction. The software written is also capable of simulating the behaviour of the simple processor. This educational processor would be used as a learning tool in Computer System Architecture course in in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) to assist students in understanding about computer system architecture. In order to complete this project, the scope of study basically will cover the computer system architecture and details about Central Processing Unit (CPU). The instruction format and CPU data path design both are based on MIPS architecture processor. The methodologies that are involved in this project are design and validation phase, constructing the hardware, and programming the user interface to interact with the educational processor

System Engineering Strategy for Distributed Multi-Purpose Simulation Architectures

This paper describes the system engineering approach used to develop distributed multi-purpose simulations. The multi-purpose simulation architecture focuses on user needs, operations, flexibility, cost and maintenance. This approach was used to develop an International Space Station (ISS) simulator, which is called the International Space Station Integrated Simulation (ISIS)1. The ISIS runs unmodified ISS flight software, system models, and the astronaut command and control interface in an open system design that allows for rapid integration of multiple ISS models. The initial intent of ISIS was to provide a distributed system that allows access to ISS flight software and models for the creation, test, and validation of crew and ground controller procedures. This capability reduces the cost and scheduling issues associated with utilizing standalone simulators in fixed locations, and facilitates discovering unknowns and errors earlier in the development lifecycle. Since its inception, the flexible architecture of the ISIS has allowed its purpose to evolve to include ground operator system and display training, flight software modification testing, and as a realistic test bed for Exploration automation technology research and development

Microservices Validation: Methodology and Implementation

Due to the wide spread of cloud computing, arises actual question about architecture, design and implementation of cloud applications. The microservice model describes the design and development of loosely coupled cloud applications when computing resources are provided on the basis of automated IaaS and PaaS cloud platforms. Such applications consist of hundreds and thousands of service instances, so automated validation and testing of cloud applications developed on the basis of microservice model is a pressing issue. There are constantly developing new methods of testing both individual microservices and cloud applications at a whole. This article presents our vision of a framework for the validation of the microservice cloud applications, providing an integrated approach for the implementation of various testing methods of such applications, from basic unit tests to continuous stability testing

Designing a novel virtual collaborative environment to support collaboration in design review meetings

Project review meetings are part of the project management process and are organised to assess progress and resolve any design conflicts to avoid delays in construction. One of the key challenges during a project review meeting is to bring the stakeholders together and use this time effectively to address design issues as quickly as possible. At present, current technology solutions based on BIM or CAD are information-centric and do not allow project teams to collectively explore the design from a range of perspectives and brainstorm ideas when design conflicts are encountered. This paper presents a system architecture that can be used to support multi-functional team collaboration more effectively during such design review meetings. The proposed architecture illustrates how information-centric BIM or CAD systems can be made human- and team-centric to enhance team communication and problem solving. An implementation of the proposed system architecture has been tested for its utility, likability and usefulness during design review meetings. The evaluation results suggest that the collaboration platform has the potential to enhance collaboration among multi-functional teams