CertSAFE is used for successful DO-178 DAL C Weather Radar TSO approval

CertSAFE was used to model mathematical algorithms and decision making logic for the Weather Radar turbulence detection and reporting from text based requirements spread across numerous pages of documentation. The intended behavior and dependencies were difficult to piece together and understand without CertSAFE, which is a common occurrence in requirements that are not model-based or otherwise ambiguous. The CertSAFE modeling interface was the perfect solution with a base set of library components and custom components that were stitched together automatically for a complete representation of the end to end requirements with clear traceability to each requirement identifier.

The CertSAFE simulation interface provided a visual representation of the system as a whole with access to all interconnections and design level details of each block. The IntelliPoints were used to create simulation test vectors that worked in concert with the model diagrams to see what was happening anywhere in the system at any point in time immediately and automatically. This was incredibly useful for validation of the correct intended behavior of the software requirements prior to verification testing in the lab on the target hardware.

The CertSAFE input/output simulation test vectors were automatically exported to open file formats for independent review in a standardized test cases approved by the customer and certification authority. The reviewed and approved test cases were then used to auto generate standardized test procedures for “white box” and “black box” test environments. These unique features were a key to successful TSO approval of the Weather Radar software on schedule.

Timothy Stockton, CERTON President and CEO stated, “Understanding the system functionality and the design is the key to producing meaningful end to end tests with appropriate coverage. This may be simple for small pieces of software, but increasingly more complex when the pieces of software are assembled. CertSAFE not only makes the end to end testing approach to V&V possible, it makes it fast and easy with cohesion between the system, software, and verification teams. Everyone using CertSAFE can immediately see and understand what is happening in the system, including intended functionality, unexpected behavior, misinterpretations, or errors. This unique capability proved to be invaluable on the Weather Radar program and streamlined the V&V process. In fact, the software received TSO approval on all six embedded processors prior to their hardware and systems TSO approvals, which was unprecedented for the customer on this product line before CERTON was responsible for V&V.”