Design and Implementation of a Real-Time Rate-Based Task Scheduler for Real-Time Operating Systems: A Case Study with VxWorks

This paper details the implementation of a rate-based task scheduler into the VxWorks realtime operating system, intendedto enhance resource allocation for distributed real-time systems, such as IoT and embedded devices. Rate-based scheduling dynamically adjusts task execution rates based on system demand, providing a flexible and efficient approach to meeting real-time constraints. The scheduler was integrated into VxWorks and evaluated using the Cheddar scheduling analysis tool and the VxWorks VxSim simulator. Initial results demonstrate improved deadline adherence and resource management under varying loads compared to traditional schedulers. Future work includes porting the scheduler to single-board computers to assess its performance on resource-constrained IoT hardware and extending it to support resource sharing between tasks to address real-time coordination challenges. This research emphasizes the potential of rate-based scheduling for IoT applications, offering a scalable solution for managing the complexity of distributed, real-time environments in future embedded systems.