DSML4DT: A domain-specific modeling language for device tree software

Abstract Device trees (DTs) provide description of devices and peripherals inside an embedded system with node specifications. However, developers mostly encounter difficulties in creating DT applications due to DT syntax different from the well-known general purpose programming languages. Moreover, both development and configuration of DT software components regarding different microprocessor architectures can be very hard and time-consuming for many embedded system developers. In order to eliminate these difficulties, we introduce a domain-specific modeling language, called DSML4DT, which provides the model-driven development (MDD) of DT software for the wide range of processor families. The evaluation of using DSML4DT was performed inside a company producing intelligent transportation systems. The comparative evaluation results showed that approximately 76 % of DT structures can be obtained automatically only through modeling with DSML4DT. Comparing with the software development process currently followed in the company, the new MDD process reduced the time elapsed for implementing a DT software to half. Finally, feedbacks from the developers confirmed that they adopted the language particularly in terms of functional suitability, compatibility and reusability.

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