DaimlerChrysler Adopts McObject’s eXtremeDB For Reliable, Real-time Data Management
March 8, 2002 — DaimlerChrysler, one of the world’s leading auto manufacturers, has selected McObject’s eXtremeDB for real-time data management in a new production line quality assurance system. By using McObject’s small footprint, main memory database at DaimlerChrysler’s electronics plant in Huntsville, Alabama, the plant’s manufacturing engineers expect to shorten development time while gaining performance, reliability and flexibility.
DaimlerChrysler’s Huntsville Electronics Division makes electronic modules such as radios, body controllers and engine controllers used at auto assembly plants worldwide. As a final step in production, end-of-line automated testers check the modules’ functioning, burn traceability data into their EEPROM, and help print labels. The testing equipment incorporates rapid data collection and access, and must provide for fail-safe operation to meet the plant’s continuous production requirements.
In developing testers for a new electronics product, DaimlerChrysler’s manufacturing engineers sought an off-the-shelf data management system to replace proprietary code. Among other benefits, a commercial database was expected to enable faster deployment by offering a proven, scaleable solution.
McObject’s eXtremeDB proved the best fit. As a main memory database, eXtremeDB eliminates I/O and other performance overhead associated with disk access. In addition, the DaimlerChrysler engineers expect McObject’s support for complex data types—such as C structures—to streamline application development and provide for tighter, more efficient code.
DaimlerChrysler’s software engineering team liked the fact that eXtremeDB is built from the ground up to meet the needs of embedded systems, according to a team member working on the project. Unlike enterprise databases that require constant oversight by IT personnel, the eXtremeDB runtime is self-administering—a big advantage given the application’s need for autonomous, non-stop processing, the engineer said
The DaimlerChrysler application also requires data access that is fast and does not monopolize system resources. McObject’s technology delivers real-time performance and is very frugal in its RAM and CPU demands, according to the DaimlerChrysler engineer.
In addition, eXtremeDB supports Wind River Systems’ VxWorks real-time operating system and Tornado integrated development environment, DaimlerChrysler’s chosen platform for the new project. Engineers will develop the tester on a Windows host, then download software to testing devices running VxWorks on PowerPC hardware.
“McObject developed eXtremeDB to manage real-time, streaming data, with the highest degree of reliability. These are core requirements for factory automation and industrial control. We are very pleased to be part of the DaimlerChrysler team’s solution for ensuring high-quality, efficient manufacturing of automotive components,” said McObject CEO and Co-founder Steve Graves.
About McObject
McObject LLC, based in Issaquah, WA, is committed to building data management technology that makes intelligent devices smarter, and to providing first-rate support and consulting services to customers and partners. With more than 30 years experience in compilers, real-time systems, embedded data management and kernel level device-driver development, McObject’s founders are well-suited to deliver database technology that becomes as ubiquitous as computing itself. The company can be reached at 425-888-8505, or visit www.mcobject.com.
McObject and eXtremeDB are trademarks of McObject LLC. All other company or product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.