The backbone of DEEPprojects R&D efforts: our extensive co-design approach.
Co-Design is the key integrative aspect of both the DEEP and DEEP-ER projects and is performed on all levels:
- Hardware - Software: e.g. definition of suitable APIs to support the new HW features
- Software - Software: e.g. integrating the I/O components BeeGFS and SIONlib with resiliency layers
- Software - Applications: e.g. defining the exact interfaces and APIs required by the users for exploiting the provided software layers
- Hardware - Applications: e.g. co-design cycles to define best NAM functionality and interfaces
Co-Design throughout the project
It is important to note that the co-design efforts are carried out at any point in time of the project. However, logically, during certain project phases some co-design aspects prevail over others. Whereas in the beginning application requirements heavily influence the hardware design decisions, in the middle of the project extensive software-software co-design is carried out.
The DDG: Design & Development Group
Of utmost importance to the success of these co-design activities and the overall project is the DDG, the Design & Development Group within the DEEPprojects. This is a group of experts from all technical work packages to explicitly discuss implementation aspects and interdependencies between the different parts of the project, and to push forward co-design efforts. Also during the Face-2-Face meetings, special co-design sessions are held. Where necessary, co-design efforts are also supported with e.g. surveys from hardware experts to application developers and the like.