Model-based adaptation of flight-critical systems

In this paper we describe our experience applying the Producible Adaptive Model-based Software (PAMS) technology to the development of safety critical flight control software. PAMS is based on the state of the art Model Integrated Computing (MIC) environment from Vanderbilt University and represents a highly evolvable model-based software development methodology and tool suite that is revolutionary in its ability to address software adaptation. In particular, PAMS is an adaptation framework that introduces support for model transformations, co-evolution of models and modeling tools, and self-adaptation of systems. Analogous to delayed binding in compiler technology, PAMS enables binding software updates statically at design-time, on a configuration basis at load-time, and dynamically at run-time. The focus of this paper will be the application of PAMS to designtime evolution.