Using Software Component Models and Services in Embedded Real-Time Systems

While the use of software component models has become popular in the development of desktop applications and distributed information systems, such models have not been widely used in the domain of embedded real-time systems. Presumably, this is due to the requirements such systems have to meet with respect to predictable timing and limited use of resources. There is a considerable amount of research on component models for embedded real-time systems that focuses on source code components, statically configured systems, and relatively narrow application domains. This paper explores the alternative approach of using a mainstream component model based on binary components. The effects of using the model on timing and resource usage have been measured by implementing example applications both with and without using the model. In addition, the use of a prototype tool for supporting software component services has been investigated in the same manner