Generating code from hierarchical state-based requirements

Computer software is playing an increasingly important role in safety-critical embedded computer systems, where incorrect operation of the software could lead to loss of life, substantial material or environmental damage, or large monetary losses. Although software is a powerful and flexible tool for industry, these very advantages have contributed to a corresponding increase in system complexity. In a previous investigation, the Irvine Safety Research Group developed a requirements specification language called the Requirements State Machine Language (RSML) suitable for the specification of safety critical control embedded systems. To simplify and automate the design and implementation process, we have investigated the possibility of automatically generating code from RSML specifications.