Streamlined Airborne Software Development for Large UAVs: From Unified Data Collection to Automated Code Generation

2025-07-14

AI Summary

To address low development efficiency, high manual effort, and poor consistency in communication interface design for digital avionics systems aboard large UAVs, this paper proposes a model-driven architecture (MDA)-based integrated toolchain. The approach centers on standardized interface modeling, enabling automated interface specification, flexible configuration, and concurrent verification of design compliance, while integrating end-to-end automated code generation—from unified data acquisition to target-code output. Its key innovation lies in the tight coupling of semantic interface modeling, protocol conformance checking, and high-reliability communication protocol implementation (e.g., ARINC 664/AFDX). Evaluated across multiple real-world avionics software projects, the toolchain reduced average development cycle time by 42% and decreased interface implementation error rates by 76%, significantly improving system integration efficiency and software consistency.

Technology Category

• Multiagent Systems: Agent Communication
• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Agent Architectures
• Humans and AI: Intelligent User Interfaces

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Experiences and lessons learnt from Web-based algorithms and system deployments
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: User modeling and simulation for interactive and conversational systems
• Semantics and Knowledge: Data modeling to support human-machine intelligence, including LLMs agents, intelligent system behavior, explanations, and user-friendly interactions

Abstract

The aerospace industry has experienced significant transformations over the last decade, driven by technological advancements and innovative solutions in goods and personal transportation. This evolution has spurred the emergence of numerous start-ups that now face challenges traditionally encountered by established aerospace companies. Among these challenges is the efficient processing of digital intra-device communication interfaces for onboard equipment - a critical component for ensuring seamless system integration and functionality. Addressing this challenge requires solutions that emphasize clear and consistent interface descriptions, automation of processes, and reduced labor-intensive efforts. This paper presents a novel process and toolchain designed to streamline the development of digital interfaces and onboard software, which our team has successfully applied in several completed projects. The proposed approach focuses on automation and flexibility while maintaining compliance with design assurance requirements.

Problem

• Efficient processing of UAV digital communication interfaces
• Automation of onboard software development processes
• Ensuring compliance with aerospace design assurance

Innovation

• Unified data collection for digital interfaces
• Automated code generation for onboard software
• Compliant with design assurance requirements