Streamlining software migration in automotive systems with Arm and INCHRON

The automotive industry is witnessing a transformative shift towards Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), a future where software will predominantly dictate vehicle functionalities. This evolution offers several benefits, including better flexibility, features, and providing the capability for over-the-air updates.  

However, migrating automotive software encompasses several key challenges: 

• Software and hardware dependency: Legacy software is often tailored to specific hardware configurations. Migrating software to new System-on-Chips (SoCs) or high-end Microcontroller Units (MCUs) requires adjustments to hardware and software ensure compatibility and optimal performance.​ 
• Real-time performance constraints: Automotive applications, such as braking and parking sensors, frequently have stringent real-time or end-to-end latency requirements. Automotive developers must consistently meet timing constraints during migration to maintain safety and functionality.
• Resource contention: In multi-core environments, multiple software components may compete for shared resources, potentially leading to conflicts and performance bottlenecks.​ 
• Validation limitations: Testing software performance on new hardware platforms can be challenging, particularly before physical prototypes are available. 

Arm and INCHRON's collaborative model-based simulation methodology 

To address these challenges, Arm and INCHRON have established Project Callisto to develop a model-based simulation methodology which allows Oriqinal Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and TIER1s to pro-actively validate and optimize their upcoming future E/E (Electrical/Electronic) architecture designs. This approach enables automotive developers to predict performance and optimize real-time software behavior early in the architecture and design phase, much earlier than deploying it on real hardware.​ 

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The actual data for the meta-model for given hardware platforms and software architectures (for example, classic AUTOSAR) is derived from debug trace outputs or, for to-be released platforms, from datasheet specifications.  

Central to this methodology is INCHRON's chronSUITE, a comprehensive toolset designed for modeling, simulating, and analyzing timing behaviors in embedded systems, which enables developers to simulate interactions and identify potential issues early in the development process. This proactive approach reduces the risk of costly modifications later.  

More specifically, chronSUITE enables visualization and analysis of timing behaviors within embedded systems, allowing developers to assess event chains, evaluate end-to-end latencies, and ensure that real-time requirements are met. ​Furthermore, Arm and INCHRON intend to support the assessment of software performance across different Arm Cortex processors, such as transitioning from Cortex-M to Cortex-R series. This will help maintain or enhance the performance of migrated software on new platforms.​ 

Project Callisto: Industry collaboration for a seamless transition to SDVs

As the automotive industry moves toward Software-Defined Vehicles, ensuring an efficient and reliable transition requires a collaborative approach. Project Callisto aims to support OEMs and Tier-1 E/E architects in identifying robust solutions early in the development process.  

To strengthen this initiative, industry collaborations are highly encouraged:  

• Refining the Meta-Model: Feedback on the completeness and accuracy of the currently defined parameters is essential for improving the meta-model.  
• Silicon company participation: Semiconductor manufacturers are invited to reflect their hardware designs within the hardware reference meta-models. Confidentiality of design details can be maintained through the Project Callisto framework.  
• Software and application development: Software providers should contribute by representing their software stacks within the software reference meta-models for accurate simulation and validation.  
• Tooling integration: Tool vendors are encouraged to adopt and embed the Project Callisto methodology into their products, which in turn can help foster broader adoption across the ecosystem.  

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Note: The Meta-Model is available under an MIT license, making it adaptable for integration with modelling environments such as Amalthea/APP4MC.  

Through industry-wide collaboration, Project Callisto – led by Arm and INCHRON, shows how innovative simulation technologies can streamline software migration and optimize future automotive software systems. With the inclusion of standard architectures like classic AUTOSAR, this initiative effectively addresses the complexities of modern automotive software development.  

For a more comprehensive understanding and in-depth insights into this collaborative approach, you can access the detailed whitepaper here:  

Access the whitepaper