Application of Formal Verification Methods in a Safety-Oriented Software Development Life Cycle

This article delves into the growing significance of ensuring reliability and functional safety in hardware and embedded software of programmable controllers amidst rapid technological advancement. With the rise of FPGA-based digital Instrumentation and Control Systems (ICS), the need for dependable solutions has led to the development of the RadICS FSC (Functional Safety Controller) Platform by LLC RPC Radiy. While programmable controllers are pivotal across industries, vulnerabilities in their embedded software can lead to dire consequences for safety, economy, and the environment, particularly in safety-critical applications. Given this backdrop, testing embedded software becomes integral to ensuring reliability and safety. Tailored testing approaches are essential due to the unique characteristics of hardware, software, and specific controller applications. These approaches must encompass functional aspects as well as potential vulnerabilities exploitable by malicious actors.International standards like IEC 61508, IEC 61513, and IEC 60880 outline regulatory frameworks for testing, verification, validation, and safety in embedded software, guiding its development and implementation within the system safety lifecycle. This article focuses on applying formal verification methods to embedded software within the context of the safety lifecycle for programmable controllers used in safety-related applications. Through this study, valuable insights are garnered regarding the efficacy of formal verification techniques in bolstering the reliability and safety of programmable controllers’ embedded software. The results shed light on the benefits and challenges associated with integrating formal verification within the safety lifecycle, paving the way for enhanced safety and functionality in critical systems.