Rust: The next evolution in embedded software development

Current challenges in classical software development

The increasing integration of software-defined elements requires continuous improvement of software development. In the future, constant data exchange with the cloud will be necessary in order to continuously optimize software within the hardware boundaries. Manufacturers need to maintain faster development cycles to stand out by updating features and upgrades throughout the lifecycle. In addition, classic programming languages such as C and C++ reach the limits of embedded software development, because basic security guarantees such as memory or thread security are missing here. These shortcomings are among the main causes of program crashes. Numerous tools and approaches have been developed to ensure quality in a comprehensive validation phase. New solutions are needed to achieve the necessary efficiency and quality already during programming. To meet these challenges, we rely on innovative and modern embedded software development with Rust.

Rust as a modern programming language

Rust is suitable for all types of applications, from embedded real-time applications to web-based applications, due to its good performance and security aspects. Rust sets new standards as a secure and strict programming language:

• Rust reduces the effort to comply with safety regulations by supporting memory safety, concurrency safety, type safety and encapsulation.
• Rust is interoperable with C/C++, which allows a gradual use of Rust, for example for cyber security software modules, while existing less critical software modules can be retained in C/C++.
• Rust supports multiple architectures such as ARM, AURIX, x86, but also future technologies such as RISC-V and webassembly.

Integrating Rust into existing software based on interoperability

A complete change of the programming language is rarely possible and hardly makes sense. Therefore, options are needed to combine Rust with established programming languages such as C/C++. The compatible ABI (Application Binarx Interface) is essential, but there are also some challenges in the FFI definition (Foreign Function Interface), which must be considered. If these are solved, the interoperability of both languages is guaranteed. Our software experts have the necessary know-how and experience in dealing with Rust and can thus implement individual software solutions efficiently. Get in touch with us and find out how we can support you.

ITK Engineering – Your partner for modern software development with Rust

The software-defined world demands new approaches that can deal with the rising costs and complexity. As a secure programming language, Rust has the potential to meet these requirements. ITK Engineering accompanies you on the way to a modern software development with Rust and supports its customers from consulting to implementation. We are your partner to bring Rust into your products.

Our services:

• Consulting / architecture analysis
• Toolchain / DevOps Enablement
• Team Enablement
• Customized Rust software solutions (including bare metal firmware, crates, POSIX services)

Within this partnership, ITK provides technical consulting and implementation services for automotive and industrial companies wishing to implement Rust.
Together, as a unique service offering, we offer an accelerated path to the provision of “ready-to-use software developed in Rust” with tailor-made engineering services.

Benefits for you, the customer:

• More efficiency: shorter time to market
• One-hand solution: easy access to technology and technical services
• Customers can get more than just toolchain support