At NXP we’ve been looking at some ways to make system integration a snap. One example is the development of the NXP Platform
Accelerator, already deployed on millions of NXP-based devices. Let’s delve into the potential of the accelerator, the
challenges that led us to develop it and how we took some good ideas and concepts from the IT industry and made them relevant to
the world of smart connected devices. The result is a software IP and associated tools that can enable easy development, updates
in the field, assets capitalization and improved lifecycle management.
Empowering IoT Through System Integration and Compatibility
The NXP Platform Accelerator helps to address a crucial challenge in IoT and industrial device development — system
integration. Developing embedded software for resource-constrained devices has traditionally been labor-intensive —
demanding extensive manual coding and debugging and significant effort to ensure compatibility with rapidly evolving
technologies.
Consider the development differences between a smart thermostat that operates on a proprietary real-time operating system
(RTOS), a lighting control system that runs on a Linux-based platform and security cameras that use a custom embedded OS. Each
device in this scenario will likely require a unique set of software components to function optimally. The diversity in hardware
and software platforms makes it challenging to create a unified ecosystem where these devices can seamlessly interact, share
data and provide a similar user experience.
Addressing this complexity is where the Platform Accelerator shines. MicroEJ’s containerization capabilities enable the neat
packaging of software applications and their dependencies into a virtual execution environment for consistent performance across
diverse technological foundations.
A Comprehensive Solution for NXP Edge Processing
We’ve previously
introduced MICROEJ VEE, an embedded
software container that requires less than 40KB of memory to package binary applications while enabling seamless app portability
and reuse across varying technological landscapes. This remarkable technology forms the core of the NXP Platform Accelerator and
has allowed us to build a comprehensive solution that emphasizes the reuse, portability and optimization of software assets.
By implementing software containers across NXP’s Edge processing spectrum—covering MCU (RTOS), cross-over (RTOS/Linux)
and MPU (Linux)—the Platform Accelerator allows the utilization of NXP IP’s capabilities across various processors for a
consistent software experience, regardless of the processor or IP variant. Moreover, the Platform Accelerator is engineered to
deliver optimal integration and performance right from the start, focusing on memory footprint, power efficiency and overall
performance enhancement.
The NXP Platform Accelerator addresses the crucial development challenge of system integration.
Find out how.
NXP Platform Accelerator embedded architecture: A solution for an electronic system to optimize the total cost of ownership.
Unifying IoT Ecosystems with Virtual Device and Android Studio Support
One of the most exciting aspects of the Platform Accelerator is its ability to unify IoT ecosystems. With the support of the
MICROEJ Virtual Execution Environment (VEE), the Platform Accelerator leverages the same development tools used in the Android
domain, such as Android Studio, IntelliJ, the Gradle build tool and virtual devices. This unified approach provides developers
with a seamless experience to harness the true potential of IoT.
A solution to enable a software-defined electronic device, leveraging NXP’s portfolio of MCU, cross-over and MPU.
Upgrade, Update and Implement Microservices on Embedded Devices
NXP Platform Accelerator addresses a crucial requirement for modern connected devices, ensuring longevity and adaptability by
facilitating the update, upgrade and deployment of microservices and downloadable apps. The lightweight and secure architecture
of the NXP Platform Accelerator enables devices to seamlessly receive the latest features and patches without downtime or
disruption.
MICROEJ VEE further enhances device security by running multiple applications in isolation, facilitating microservice
deployment. This approach makes application development more modular and scalable. Moreover, the support for downloadable apps
within the NXP Platform Accelerator empowers end-users to customize their device experience, while manufacturers can engage with
customers post-sale.
By fostering a dynamic ecosystem where new features and services can be easily incorporated, NXP enables device manufacturers to
continuously evolve their products, stay competitive and meet the ever-changing demands of the market.
Changing the Big Picture Market Trends
The Platform Accelerator acts as a catalyst for broader market trends across various domains and applications, including:
Flexible Smart Grids and Factories
This software solution empowers continuous evolution and the transition to products-as-a-service through apps and microservices,
resulting in more adaptable smart grids and factories.
Smarter Homes
The Platform Accelerator accelerates product development and the integration of innovations like Matter, contributing to carbon
reduction through lower power and lower cost products.
Enhanced Wearables
The Platform Accelerator enables the development of feature-rich, low-power, cost-effective and innovative wearables for a new
level of convenience for consumers.
Transitioning to a Software-Defined World
The Platform Accelerator is helping to usher in the software-defined era, where customers, OEMs, and end-users can customize and
adapt functionalities, unveiling a multitude of possibilities.
For Manufacturers/OEMs:
- Amplify Productivity: Develop a broader range of products with the same talented team
- Fuel Innovation: Create and customize products with impressive agility for precise market segmentation
- Expand Service Horizons: Deploy services directly on devices, enhancing their offerings to end consumers
For End Consumers:
-
Indulge in cutting edge technology: Experience feature-rich, cost-effective products tailored to the consumer and smart home
- Embrace Evolution: Access products that adapt, grow and evolve through apps and services, enhancing our daily lives
Unleashing Innovation with NXP Platform Accelerator
At CES 2024, NXP and MicroEJ demonstrated a scalable thermostat platform running both MPU (Android based) and MCU (FreeRTOS
based) edge processing. The thermostats ran the same binary application code, displaying the same UI, and interacting with the
smart home through Matter.
The Platform Accelerator empowers embedded developers and product design in the IoT industry. Explore the
NXP Platform Accelerator's
potential with us, and create, design, innovate, and bring to market products at a rate you have never experienced before.
