Model-based synthesis of fault trees from Matlab-Simulink models

We outline a new approach to safety analysis in which concepts of computer HAZOP are fused with the idea of software fault tree analysis to enable a continuous assessment of an evolving programmable design developed in Matlab-Simulink. We also discuss the architecture of a tool that we have developed to support the new method and enable its application in complex environments. We show that the method and the tool enable the integrated hardware and software analysis of a programmable system and that in the course of that analysis they automate and simplify the development of fault trees for the system. Finally, we propose a demonstration of the method and the tool and we outline the experimental platform and aims of that demonstration.