System Co-Design (SCODE): methodology for the analysis of hybrid systems: A systematics for complexity reduction of control software in embedded systems

The increasing complexity of control engineering functionality and its implementation in software requires a methodology for the systematic integration of control theoretical as well as software engineering approaches. The presented SCODE methodology aims towards a systematic derivation of operational modes and their verification considering all relevant logical relations for the respective functional design. This is done in the sense of an Essential Analysis for mechatronic systems. Apart from guaranteed (logical) completeness and consistency, the benefit of systematic modular structuring results in reduction of complexity as well as improved maintainability and testability. The article discusses the method on the basis of a mechatronic example, demonstrates its advantages, and describes available tool support.