UML methodology for smart transducer integration in real-time embedded systems

Real-time embedded (RT/E) applications aim at controlling/commanding/monitoring systems. To achieve this goal, RT/E applications are equipped with sensors to acquire specific representative data matching physical phenomena of the environment state. In parallel, work related to sensor design proposed a new concept, called smart sensor, ensuring better solution in this area. But the design of such smart sensors remains very difficult and requires high skill level in various domains. The purpose of this paper is then to suggest a UML based methodology easing the development of RT/E applications relying on smart sensors devices. The methodology has to integrate concepts for data exchange, real-time constraint management, and time coherence mechanisms.