Toggle Main Menu Toggle Search

Open Access padlockePrints

Methods for the Development of Distributed Real-Time Embedded Systems using VDM

Lookup NU author(s): Professor John Fitzgerald, Dr Peter Larsen

Downloads


Abstract

The development of distributed real-time embedded systems presents a significant practical challenge both because of the complexity of distributed computation and because of the need to rapidly assess a wide variety of design alternatives in early stages when requirements are often volatile. Formal methods can address some of these challenges but are often thought to require greater initial investment and longer development cycles than is desirable for the development of non-critical systems in highly competitive markets. In this paper we propose an approach that takes advantage of formal modelling and analysis technology in a lightweight way, making significant use of readily available tools. We describe an incremental approach in which detail is progressively added to abstract system-level specifications of functional and timing properties via intermediate models that express system architecture, concurrency and distribution. The approach is illustrated using a model of a home automation system. The models are expressed using the Vienna Development Method (VDM) and are validated primarily by scenario-based tests.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Wolf S, Fitzgerald J, Gorm Larsen P

Publication type: Report

Publication status: Published

Series Title: School of Computing Science Technical Report Series

Year: 2009

Pages: 48

Print publication date: 01/08/2009

Source Publication Date: August 2009

Report Number: 1164

Institution: School of Computing Science, University of Newcastle upon Tyne

Place Published: Newcastle upon Tyne

URL: http://www.cs.ncl.ac.uk/publications/trs/papers/1164.pdf


Share