Describing Virtualization in Avionics Systems with an Extended Open Avionics Architecture Model

This paper introduces an extension to the Open Avionics Architecture Model (OAAM) that improves modeling of virtualization techniques like partitions and containers. Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) systems, which host multiple systems on generalized and distributed devices, require strict temporal and spatial partitioning of shared resources. While OAAM aids in planning and configuring avionics platforms, it lacks explicit modeling of partitioning concepts. Our extension adds a virtualization layer to OAAM, enabling the modeling of various partitioning mechanisms, including ARINC653 partitions and Xen DomUs. This layer supports generic virtualization, allowing for future technologies without updating OAAM. The extended model was developed and refined through use cases and expert consultations, resulting in the introduction of Virtual elements for comprehensive modeling. The new layer allows users to create partitions, define module and partition schedules, and allocate functions to virtual or physical devices. It supports complex nested virtual environments and enhances OAAM's capabilities to describe diverse virtualization scenarios, aiding in system configuration and application allocation. This development prepares OAAM for generating configuration data for various target systems, including Xen and VxWorks653. We successfully validated the extension against a use case for an IMA platform and one for a Xen-based nested virtualization.