Executable specifications for model-based development of automotive software

Automotive software design is a challenging task because of increasing system complexity. This paper proposes a model-based software development process for complex embedded systems in automotive applications. The gap between early requirement specifications and the development of electronic control units for specific features is bridged with an approach using executable specifications. Behavioral and non-functional properties of the system to be designed can thus be evaluated early during the design process, which improves the confidence of strategic design decisions. Moreover, the executable system model serves as an interface description for module designers, which eases the problem of system integration. The problem of increasing resources for system simulation and optimization is treated by an approach of accuracy adaptive system simulation. The paper presents work in progress towards a complete methodology and tool chain using a CAN bus example.