SIMPLE RAILROAD CONTROLLER: A CASE STUDY IN REAL-TIME SPECIFICATION
Ton Biegstraaten, K. Brink, J van Katwikj, Hans Toetenel · 1994
It is generally accepted that requirement models for real-time systems may benefit from the use of formal specifications. In order to be able to evaluate notations for use in the development of real-time software systems, we are performing a comparitive review of some selected specification notations. The study emphasizes the use of the notations in the domain of real-time (control) applications. Our review will be based on a simple railroad controller model. This case contains data modeling aspects, functional aspects as well as temporal aspects. A (toy) railroad with computer interface, is available in our laboratory, used for lab assignments. An Ada encoded controller, loosely based on the specification in this report, is running on a PC for demonstrations. Typical elements to consider are usability with regard to the specification in relation to the requirements, and second, usability with respect to further programme development. In this report we discuss the problem as well as a ...