Addition of fault detection capabilities in automation applications using Petri nets

Automation systems´ design clearly benefits from the use of formal methods. These should provide a simple way to support system´s modifications and evolution. Petri nets provide a model of computation commonly used in automation system design. This paper presents a methodology allowing Petri nets´ design models to accommodate specific fault detection capabilities. It allows the modeller to specify the desired changes, in a structured way, across the model. The methodology is based on the addition and subtraction of net parts. The paper shows its application to an automation system of a pulp industry producer, where specific fault detection strategies can be tested and replaced by a new one, through the proposed subtractions and additions.