A study of automatic code generation for safety-critical software: preliminary report

Modern safety-critical systems (e.g., combined pacemaker/deliberator devices, distributed patient therapy delivery systems) incorporate more functionality than similar devices of the past. The development of these complex systems challenges existing quality assurance techniques; results in significantly longer development times; and demands greater staffing resources to ensure quality and timely product completion. This is an interim report on a case study of the efficacy and viability of automatic code generation (ACG) techniques applied in the development of real-time, safety-critical software-dependent systems (Whalen, 1997). The research uses model-based software engineering (MBSE) practices that incorporate integrated analysis and design iterations throughout the development process. The focus of these investigations is the application of automated code generation tools that embody various methodologies, in the development of safety critical systems. There was no attempt to embark on explicit tool comparisons or evaluations.