Platform modeling for exploration and synthesis

Ever increasing complexity and heterogeneity of system platforms drive the need for a move to higher levels of abstraction accompanied by corresponding design automation tools. The basis for any automated flow are well-defined design models. In this paper, we present an overview and taxonomy of platform modeling at various levels. Experiments demonstrate the benefits of fast yet accurate intermediate models at varying levels for rapid, early design space exploration. Furthermore, paired with automatic model generation and hardware/software synthesis, an automated path from specification to implementation becomes possible.