Hyper-Embedded Computing: An Optimized System Architecture for Area-Constrained Applications

The widespread adoption of 32-bit and 64-bit processors and ample memory resources in modern embedded systems has led to designs that prioritize performance and functionality over die area. This abundance has resulted in solutions that may not be optimal for applications where power and resource conservation are critical. To address this oversight, we introduce hyper-embedded computing, a paradigm that reinvigorates minimalistic embedded system design by integrating sophisticated multi-processing capabilities into ultra-compact embedded architectures with fixed silicon configurations. This approach is particularly well-suited for mission-critical, area-constrained applications that demand long-term reliability and sustainability. We build on this concept with the Turbo9, a 16-bit microprocessor optimized for minimal logic area, and TurbOS, a real-time embedded operating system that delivers UNIX-like features within a constrained memory area. TurbOS features a modular architecture, a preemptive multitasking kernel, a unified input/output architecture, and efficient memory utilization. Compared to currently used microprocessors and real-time operating systems, our approach achieves similar functionality while reducing memory area by approximately 75%, making it an ideal choice for sustainable and high-reliability embedded applications.