OpenGL ES SC - open standard embedded graphics API for safety critical applications

The avionics community has been crying out for several years for a true "Open" embedded graphics standard that is architected not only to provide them the functionality they need but to address their safety requirements also. OpenGL has become the standard of choice in terms of providing functionality and ubiquitous support across a number of platforms. This choice is not without its pitfalls however, especially as safety and security become increasingly important. In recognition of the varying needs of different embedded graphics markets, the OpenGL Architecture Review Board (the governing body responsible for maintaining the OpenGL specification) established the Khronos Group to look at defining a small number of subsets of the OpenGL API (profiles) that would be more suited to the needs of each separate embedded graphics market. One of the embedded graphics markets targeted by the Khronos Group was the small-footprint, safety-conscious market that encompasses aerospace and defense applications, automotive and medical devices. This paper will discuss the particular demands of this market and explain how these demands have resulted in the current OpenGL ES SC profile definition. It will go on to explain how the OpenGL ES SC profile is beginning to change the way that Aerospace and Defense companies specify their graphics requirements and will conclude with some predictions about what this will mean in future.