Learn about Embedded Systems in our three-part Online Lecture Series “Embedded Systems”!
Within the framework of the ATHENA Competence Cluster “Embedded Systems”, international lecturers from the University of Vigo, the University of Siegen, and VILNIUS TECH provide you with fascinating insights into specific subjects of Embedded Systems. The lectures are open to all interested students and (academic) staff.
The flyer for the lecture series can be downloaded here.
What are Embedded Systems?
Embedded Systems enable real-time computer-aided control of physical devices and systems ranging from medical equipment to automotive engines, and industrial robots. They lead to tremendous benefits in safety, comfort, and energy efficiency. At the same time, there is a tremendous increase in complexity at the system level in the design of embedded systems.
The three lectures provide space for students and academics to gain in-depth knowledge in:
- 16 November 2023, 12:00 – 13:30 CET, Linux and Android for Embedded Systems
- 17 November 2023, 10:15 – 11:45 CET, Safety-Relevant Adaptive Embedded Systems
- 12 December 2023, 12:15 – 14:45 CET, Real-time Operating Systems
Linux and Android for Embedded Systems
16 November 2023, 12:00 – 13:30 CETLecturer: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Felipe Gil-Castiñeira, University of Vigo
Although Linux is not a real-time operating system, it became one popular alternative for embedded systems, being used both as an operating system, and as middleware platform for the implementation of applications. In this lecture, we will describe the boot process of a modern ARM CPU, and how Linux configures the system and starts. We will also describe the architecture of Android and how it can be used for implementing embedded systems.
Additional material:
- Sasu Tarkoma. Mobile Middleware – Architecture, Patterns, and Practice. Wiley 2009.
- Texas Instruments (Sitara Boot Camp).
- Embedded Linux Education Kit, by ARM University
Safety-Relevant Adaptive Embedded Systems
17 November 2023, 10:15 – 11:45 CETLecturer: Prof. Dr. Roman Obermaisser, University of Siegen
In this 90-minute lecture, we will address concepts, models and algorithms of adaptive embedded systems for safety-relevant applications. Covered topics include requirements and techniques for fault tolerance and safety, time-triggered systems and adaptation mechanisms. Models and algorithms will be discussed, which enable time-triggered systems to adapt to context events such as faults, slack and changing environmental conditions in order to improve energy efficiency, reliability, safety and flexibility. We will also highlight examples of adaptive time-triggered systems in industrial applications. This lecture offers insight for students who are interested in combining strict safety and real-time guarantees with energy efficiency, flexibility and resource efficiency.
Real-time Operating Systems
12 December 2023, 12:15 – 14:45 CETLecturer: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eldar Šabanovič, VILNIUS TECH
In this 90-minute lecture, we will explore the fundamentals of Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS) and their pivotal role in embedded systems. Topics covered include the defining characteristics of RTOS, the distinction between hard and soft real-time systems, key scheduling algorithms, and popular RTOS examples in current applications. We will also touch upon the challenges faced in RTOS design and implementation. This lecture offers a comprehensive overview for anyone keen to understand the intricacies of real-time systems in the embedded domain.
Additional material:
- Quick overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real-time_operating_system
- Alternative: https://www.embedded.com/programming-embedded-systems-what-is-a-real-time-operating-system/
- Example RTOS: https://www.freertos.org/
- Book for in-depth learning: Jonathan W. Valvano “Embedded Systems: Real-Time Operating Systems for Arm Cortex M Microcontrollers”
