Internet-based hardware/software co-design framework for embedded 3D graphics applications

Abstract

Advances in technology are making it possible to run three-dimensional(3D) graphics applications on embedded and handheld devices. In thisarticle, we propose a hardware/software co-design environment for 3Dgraphics application development that includes the 3D graphics software,OpenGL ES application programming interface (API), device driver, and 3Dgraphics hardware simulators. We developed a 3D graphicssystem-on-a-chip (SoC) accelerator using transaction-level modeling(TLM). This gives software designers early access to the hardware evenbefore it is ready. On the other hand, hardware designers also stand togain from the more complex test benches made available in the softwarefor verification. A unique aspect of our framework is that it allowshardware and software designers from geographically dispersed areas tocooperate and work on the same framework. Designs can be entered andexecuted from anywhere in the world without full access to the entireframework, which may include proprietary components. This results incontrolled and secure transparency and reproducibility, granting leveledaccess to users of various roles.