Affordable Run-Time Verification & Validation of Flight Critical Software

A well structured approach based on sound theory is realized through a strategy to achieve affordable V&V of critical software. With this approach, we propose the development of tools needed to provide the context for assessing safety and dependability. Our approach uses formalized attributes with comprehensive treatment of all possible error types. The techniques employed to provide on-line V&V are based on properties that are required by the software component and monitoring of declared “safe operating conditions and behavior” by the components. Our theory shows the degree of deterministic and bounded fault detection that can be achieved in a complex distributed system given either existing or transformed attributes. When these techniques are combined with a sound understanding of safety hazards and the corresponding functional requirements, transformations of the system performance can be realized through the integration and monitoring of detectors in target systems. With the appropriate mechanisms, on-line monitoring of these conditions can be carried out. The WWTG middleware framework is transformed into an on-line verifier/validator of the software, helping to extend coverage and visibility into systems under test while simultaneously reducing costs and reducing the risk of flaws that impede correct and safe system operation.