Behavioural Analysis Methodology Oriented to Configuration of Parallel, Real-Time and Embedded Systems

This paper describes a methodology suitable for behavioural analysis of parallel real-time and embedded systems. The main goal of the methodology is to achieve a proper configuration of the system in order to fulfill the real-time constraints specified for it. The analysis is based on the measurement of a prototype of the system and is supported by a behavioural model. The main components of this model are known as “macro-activities”, that is, the sequences of activities which are carried out in response to input events, causing the corresponding output events. This supposes a behavioural view in the analysis that complements the more usual structural and resource views. The methodology incorporates steps of diagnosis (evaluation of the causes of system behaviour) and configuration (planning of alternatives for design improvement after diagnosis). The experimental results of applying the methodology to the analysis of a well-known case study are also an important part of this paper.