FROOTS Concept

FROOTS is a modular firmware base/template designed for single-function embedded devices that:

• 🔧 Perform a dedicated control task (e.g., temperature regulation, motor control).
• 🧠 Execute all logic locally, maintaining autonomy and robustness.
• 🔄 Accept optional supervisor commands for configuration or coordination.
• 🛡️ Continue safe, deterministic operation even if the supervisor becomes unavailable.
• ⏱️ Support scheduled or profiled behavior, such as ramping temperature or timed sequences.
• 🤝 Enable distributed deployment, where each device operates independently or as part of a networked system.

• 🔌 Respond appropriately to supervision loss, using fallback behaviors or hold-states rather than failing unsafely.

• FROOTS: Firmware for Resilient, (Function-)Oriented Operation of Things Specification

  • Pronounced like “fruits”
  • Defines firmware standard for BREADS to create FEAST-compliant devices
  • Standardized communication over I²C, SPI, UART, etc.
  • Modular driver model for sensors and actuators

  • Lightweight, MCU-agnostic state-based control framework

  • Planned implementations:
    • SPREAD firmware for SLICEs
      • Standardized PRogram for Expandable Automation Devices
    • JUICE firmware for CRUST
      • Joint Utility Interface for Control & Expansion