Real-time UML Workshop for Embedded Systems

Bruce Powel Douglass, PhD, is a name to know when it comes to UML (universal modeling language). Douglas was chief evangelist for I-Logix and has continuously revealed his considerable expertise in UML to readers. Real-time UML support has become critical as UML continues to be used in more embedded applications. The tool can be used to generate application code, not just specifications. The book starts with a short UML overview ideal for even the novice developer. It highlights the Harmony development process that utilizes the integrated workflow available in most commercial UML platforms. Essentially, it is an enhancement of the ROPES (Rapid Object-oriented Process for Embedded Systems). The book takes a top-down design approach, addressing system requirement specification and architecture. It moves onto object analysis and detailed design, and exposes design patterns in a consistent fashion. I liked Douglass’ approach in introducing specific examples like the Coyote UAV system without belaboring the point in the main chapters. Instead, details are left to appendices. As you might expect, there are plenty of UML diagrams. Real-time UML specifications are used throughout, consistent with the purpose of the book. Designers with UML expertise who want to understand how to address real-time applications will find this book useful, as will those in the real-time world who need to understand how to bring UML to bear on the design problem. The book includes a CD with a demo version of Telelogic’s (which now includes I-Logix) Rhapsody. The demo version addresses various samples in the book and functions as a platform for additional experimentation. This book definitely has some frayed pages.