Arguing on Software-Level Verification Techniques Appropriateness

Carmen Cârlan , Barbara Gallina , Severin Kacianka and Ruth Breu

Proceedings of the International Conference on Computer Safety, Reliability, and Security (SAFECOMP), pp. 39–54

2017 · Cham · doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-66266-4_3

abstract

In this paper, we investigate the pondered selection of innovative software verification technology in the safety-critical domain and its implications. Verification tools perform analyses, testing or simulation activities. The compliance of the techniques implemented by these tools to fulfill standard-mandated objectives (i.e., to be means of compliance in the context of DO-178C and related supplements) should be explained to the certification body. It is thereby difficult for practitioners to use novel techniques, without a systematic method for arguing their appropriateness. Thus, we offer a method for arguing the appropriate application of a certain verification technique (potentially in combination with other techniques) to produce the evidence needed to satisfy certification objectives regarding fault detection and mitigation in a realistic avionics application via safety cases. We use this method for the choice of an appropriate compiler to support the development of a drone.

subject terms: Model-based Systems Engineering, MbSE