Lessons Learned from a Successful Implementation of Formal Methods in an Industrial Project

Abstract

This paper describes the lessons we learned over a thirteen year period while helping to develop the shutdown systems for the nuclear generating station at Darlington, Ontario, Canada. We begin with a brief description of the project and then show how we modified processes and notations developed in the academic community so that they are acceptable for use in industry. We highlight some of the topics that proved to be particularly challenging and that would benefit from more in-depth study without the pressure of project deadlines.

TESLA Source Authentication Protocol Verification Experiment in the Timed OTS/CafeOBJ Method: Experiences and Lessons Learned

“…In [29]- [32] the authors apply different formal methods to the specification and verification of industrial systems and they present their experiences.…”

Software Certification: Is There a Case against Safety Cases?

“…Nowadays, when we refer to the Darlington approach, it is to the methodology that was researched and implemented subsequent to the original verification. The software development (and verification) approach was described briefly in [25]. As that approach was developed, it was discussed in detail with the regulatory authority in Canada.…”

A Tabular Expression Toolbox for Matlab/Simulink

“…It has been shown that tables provide a formal yet convenient way to specify these functions [6]. We believe that tabular expressions allow for easier readability of documentation, and facilitate inspection of completeness and consistency of specified functionality.…”