Model-based framework for embedded system product line

The use of reconfigurable platforms for embedded system design leverages product line engineering (PLE), in which the development of products starts from a set of core assets (the platform) rather than the development of individual products from zero. Two major activities of PLE are domain engineering (i.e., platform development) and product engineering (i.e., product customization) reusing the core assets. Virtual prototyping in PLE allows rapid validation of both the platform and individual products with greater benefits in development costs, time to market and quality. However, since virtual prototypes (VP) are implemented in low-level languages, if platform development and product engineering are done at this level, productivity is negatively affected. A commonly-accepted solution for closing this productivity gap is to raise the level of abstraction in the whole design process and to automate the implementation of VPs from the high-level descriptions. In this paper, we present the HiLeS2 Framework, which is based on Model Driven Software Product Lines (MD-SPL) concepts. HiLeS2 framework provides an environment for domain and product engineering, automated construction of VPs and creation of product line integrated development environments.