FMEA-Based Control Mechanism for Embedded Control Software

Current software FMEA analysis depends on the static model of the embedded real-time system which cannot fully assess the dynamics of control loops and changes in timing. Control block diagram is not only the static model but also the dynamic model of the system. Though the simulation of the control blocks diagram, the dynamics of control lops and changes in timing can result in the injection of the failure mode. For illustration, a small embedded control system is utilized. Empirical results show that more detailed information such as the dynamics of control loops and changes in timing will provide the comprehensive effect analysis for software FMEA. Tough FMEA and control mechanism analysis techniques which assess operation under normal conditions and simulation of dynamic timing and failure conditions, a complete validation of the safety characteristics of embedded real-time control systems can result.