How to fix Embedded and IoT development lifecycle issues

Developing embedded systems and integrating them into the IoT ecosystem is a complex process that requires expertise and understanding of project needs. This involves multiple layers and technologies, with potential risks. Challenges that impact both embedded and IoT development include security, scalability, and interoperability. Systematic solutions must be implemented across different layers to address these challenges.

Stemming the issues of embedded development in various systems

To effectively tackle the challenges of embedded development in diverse systems, it is crucial to distinguish between the two main types of embedded systems: monolithic and distributed. Each has distinct applications and advantages that can benefit your business. As a crucial first step in the embedded development lifecycle, it is imperative to thoroughly comprehend your project’s requirements to determine the appropriate type of system for your needs.

Monolithic systems

A monolithic system is a single piece of equipment that serves a limited number of functions. It collects input through an interface and produces predetermined output. For example, a washing machine is a monolithic system that receives input through user interaction, which is then processed by a central processing unit (CPU) to initiate a washing cycle.

Addressing the challenges of monolithic systems at design level

Effectively addressing embedded development challenges in monolithic systems requires precise planning during the design phase. This involves selecting the appropriate workflow, components, and connectivity protocols that align with business requirements. As different components, interfaces, and protocols possess their own strengths and weaknesses, designing a system that meets specific needs and goals is essential. Monolithic systems are ideal for constructing extensive and flexible distributed networks. By connecting monolithic devices with distinct purposes and tasks, a customized ecosystem can be established to meet business needs. For instance, a network of sensors in a smart factory for inventory tracking can be created by connecting monolithic devices, forming a distributed system.

Distributed systems

A distributed system consists of multiple monolithic systems with an interface for user input. Data is sent to the central CPU, which uses the information to make decisions based on user commands. This system enables control over complex systems, but the embedded development process can be challenging. A smart home is an example of a distributed system with multiple devices connected to a gateway. Preparing a comprehensive infrastructure map is crucial to overcome the challenges of distributed systems in the embedded development lifecycle.

Fixing issues associated with distributed system layers

A distributed system is a type of infrastructure that is more complex and has greater embedded development challenges and potential vulnerabilities. The system is comprised of three layers:

Challenges associated with the gateway layer

The gateway is the control unit in a distributed system that connects and manages all monoliths. It controls devices directly connected to it via the network. Failure to design a scalable, high-load architecture from the start can hinder business growth, making it a critical embedded development challenge. A reliable embedded software development partner can help build a robust and scalable system.

Network

Connectivity is crucial for establishing communication between devices and the gateway in a distributed system. Incompatibility between devices and the gateway can lead to communication breakdowns, inefficiencies, and challenges during embedded development. The vast number of devices in large smart environments can make it challenging to connect them seamlessly. To avoid these issues, it’s essential to consider compatibility and connectivity protocols during the design stage. Devices following the same standards should be chosen, and if creating custom devices, compatibility with third-party systems should be ensured. Overcoming these challenges is vital to building a functional and scalable embedded system.

Device

The diverse range of embedded devices, each with unique communication protocols and logic, can present challenges when integrating new devices into an existing system. Custom-designed devices that match ecosystem requirements or ensure compatibility with an internet-connected system can address interoperability issues. Integrating out-of-box solutions into the ecosystem is another option. However, provisioning and installation are challenges to consider during the discovery phase of embedded development. A dedicated team of experts can help with integration and make the embedded system part of an IoT infrastructure, supporting business growth with a well-planned roadmap.

Transitioning to IoT: major drawbacks and ways to address them

Connecting an embedded system to the web qualifies it as an IoT, but this transition has unique design-phase challenges.

Increase in the likelihood of cybersecurity breaches

Security is a top concern for any business, with numerous threats to IoT devices at various architecture levels. The cloud layer is particularly vulnerable, making secure architecture essential and creating IoT development challenges. Attacks like information breaches, hijacking, DoS, and insider threats can compromise cloud services. Designing a secure cloud infrastructure and implementing threat intelligence and security solutions using the DevSecOps approach is necessary during the IoT development lifecycle. An expert team can help design high-load architecture that protects networks from attacks and data theft.

Cybersecurity trends in IoT

A secure cloud architecture is crucial for identifying and preventing security risks, ensuring the short-term secure functioning of your ecosystem. To guarantee long-term growth, you must ensure both security and scalability. Fortunately, a partner who uses DevOps and cloud capabilities can help with embedded and IoT development challenges, including security.

Having predictive maintenance and control tools is crucial to prevent incidents and downtimes in smart ecosystems. Lack of monitoring and control over the system is an IoT development challenge that can lead to overheads and shutdowns. Data processing plays a role in predictive maintenance, allowing operators to optimize efficiency and prevent incidents. Effective data management tools require expertise in Big Data, Data Warehouse, Data Lake, real-time data processing, business intelligence, data science, AI, and machine learning. Proper data management can enable predictive maintenance, automation, inventory management, and monitoring. It allows for collecting data, predicting bottlenecks, and ensuring effective maintenance of the facility. Effective data management is crucial for optimal performance and growth of your ecosystem.

Stemming challenges through experience: The progress made

Softeq has developed embedded and IoT services for clients in various industries, such as fleet tracking and medical equipment. With our experience, we are prepared to tackle new challenges in embedded and IoT development.

Pursuing embedded software development with the leading medical technology company

Softeq has aided medical technology companies in enhancing their development capabilities and reducing time to market for various solutions. Our team has released firmware throughout the embedded development lifecycle, adhering to industry standards and security requirements. We have also introduced a predictive maintenance device for the system, ensuring the solution’s reliability and optimal performance.

Enhancing the efficiency fleet operations with IoT-powered fleet tracking

We collaborated with an international company providing smart telematics solutions for fleet operations management. Our team supported the full IoT development lifecycle, creating a full-stack solution for industrial fleet tracking and management. This solution streamlined and optimized processes, expanded customer outreach, and certified the new product. We developed an OEM-based Linux connectivity solution to ensure efficient monitoring and management of vehicles. This project showcased our expertise in IoT development challenges and our ability to deliver reliable, scalable, and secure solutions to our clients. 

Software and hardware development for electronic manufacturing company

Our team designed and certified power supplies to meet a broad range of voltage needs while adhering to the most stringent international standards for efficiency and electromagnetic emission.

Parting Thoughts

A well-structured embedded IoT development lifecycle can speed up project results and prevent cost overheads. It requires domain expertise and experience in developing such systems. Your partner can help design scalable embedded systems and transition into IoT. Experts are needed to run products through the development lifecycle. Softeq offers embedded and IoT expertise to achieve project goals and address challenges while avoiding overheads.