Embedded 508: Descartes' Demon
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Aug 21, 2025 William Griffin, an engineering consultant and co-founder of Spark Embedded, shares his expertise on hardware-in-the-loop testing and model-based system design. He discusses the intricacies of simulating control systems and emphasizes the importance of using real data for accurate modeling. Griffin also highlights the challenges of code generation and the evolution of programming tools. The conversation touches on innovative ideas influenced by literature and the significance of collaboration in engineering teams to tackle complex challenges and foster success.
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Human-In-The-Loop With Fake Cabs
- William described building fake cabs and multi-monitor setups to let humans drive virtual vehicles using real controllers.
- Those human-in-the-loop setups revealed communication and usability issues before hardware existed.
Use The Right 'In-The-Loop' Level
- Use a hierarchy of 'in the loop' tests: model-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop, processor-in-the-loop, and hardware-in-the-loop.
- Pick the test level that isolates the component you want to validate while keeping the rest simulated.
Treat Models As Source Of Truth
- Keep control models abstracted from OS and low-level bugs to focus on application logic and stakeholder communication.
- Treat the model as the source of truth and generate code for portability across targets.
