A requirements analysis approach for addressing the functional requirements of embedded systems has been proposed. Also proposed is a design approach based on the concurrent object-oriented programming paradigm. The design approach takes a specification created using the requirements analysis approach and transforms it into a detailed design. The detailed design is implemented using ACf++, a concurrent C++ that derives its concurrency semantics from the Actor model. The two approaches are illustrated by a simple but representative process control problem.

The requirements analysis approach in conjunction with the design approach provides a high level of traceability and promotes the reusability of specifications and design. Improved reliability and reduced development and maintenance costs also are potential benefits. Extensions of the work include an integrated software development environment for embedded systems.