Adaptive DevOps Practices for Enhancing Reliability and Performance of Embedded Computing Platforms in Safety Critical Industrial Applications

This study investigates the adoption of adaptive DevOps practices in embedded systems used in safety-critical industrial applications. Traditional DevOps models, which are primarily designed for cloud-based systems, face significant challenges when applied to embedded platforms due to hardware constraints, real-time performance requirements, and stringent safety standards. The research focuses on developing a tailored DevOps framework that integrates continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI or CD) pipelines, automation, real-time monitoring, and safety assurance processes to enhance system reliability, performance, and compliance with regulatory standards. The study uses a case study methodology, involving embedded system teams across multiple industrial sectors, to assess the impact of these adapted DevOps practices on system stability and operational efficiency. Key findings show that the adoption of adaptive DevOps practices led to significant improvements in system reliability, performance, and deployment stability. Continuous feedback mechanisms allowed for early issue detection and faster resolution, leading to enhanced system uptime and responsiveness. Additionally, the integration of safety assurance into the DevOps pipeline ensured that safety-critical systems complied with required safety integrity levels and certification standards. The study further explores the integration of DevOps with embedded safety-critical systems, highlighting the benefits of cross-domain collaboration, enhanced communication, and the ability to address the unique challenges of these platforms. The research also underscores the limitations of conventional DevOps models in embedded systems and presents practical implications for the wider adoption of DevOps in safety-critical industrial applications. Future research is recommended to refine DevOps frameworks for embedded systems, integrating emerging technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Digital Twins to further optimize performance, security, and predictive maintenance.