Semantic Modelling and Simulation of Heterogeneous Embedded Systems

Abstract The designer of the embedded system does not only work with components of classical computer science (hardware and software), but must also consider special features of components from micro- and nano engineering, optics, mechanics, pneumatics, and hydraulics. The integration of procedures and components from numerous different domains complicates the engineering considerably. Although good tools were presented for every individual domain in the past, a comprehensive approach for the specification, description, and simulation of heterogeneous systems has yet to be developed. These problems result from the different representation forms of the draft data on the corresponding abstraction level. A semantic model is presented in this paper that enables the system designer to construct and maintain knowledge bases for his or her specific tasks. Generators that allow translations of the model into conventional, passive DBMS as well as into active DBMS are provided for the implementation. Both the mechanisms for the preservation of the semantic integrity and the generalized simulator are projections of the same meta model.