Autocoding methods for networked embedded systems

The volume and complexity of software is increasing; presenting developers with an ever increasing challenge to deliver a system within the agreed timescale and budget [1]. With the use of Computer-Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools for requirements management, component design, and software validation the risks to the project can be reduced. This project focuses on Autocoding CASE tools, the methods used by such tools to generate the code, and the features these tools provide the user. The Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformation (XSLT) based autocoding method used by Rapicore in their NetGen embedded network design tool was known to have a number of issues and limitations. The aim of the research was to identify these issues and develop an innovative solution that would support current and future autocoding requirements. Using the literature review and a number of practical projects, the issues with the XSLT-based method were identified. These issues were used to define the requirements with which a more appropriate autocoding method was researched and developed. A more powerful language was researched and selected, and with this language a prototype autocoding platform was designed, developed, validated, and evaluated. The work concludes that the innovative use and integration of programmer-level Extensible Markup Language (XML) code descriptions and PHP scripting has provided Rapicore with a powerful and flexible autocoding platform to support current and future autocoding application requirements of any size and complexity