Reference architecture for high dependability on-board computers

Abstract

The industrial process in the area of on-board computers is characterized by small production series of onboard computers (hardware and software) configuration items with little recurrence at unit or set level (e.g. computer equipment unit, set of interconnected redundant units). These small production series result into a reduced amount of statistical data related to dependability, which influence on the way on-board computers are specified, designed and verified. In the context of ESA harmonization policy for the deployment of enhanced and homogeneous industrial processes in the area of avionics embedded systems and on-board computers for the space industry, this study aimed at rationalizing the initiation phase of the development or procurement of on-board computers and at improving dependability assurance. This aim was achieved by establishing generic requirements for the procurement or development of on-board computers with a focus on well defined reliability, availability, and maintainability requirements, as well as a generic methodology for planning, predicting and assessing the dependability of onboard computers hardware and software throughout their life cycle. It also provides guidelines for producing evidence material and arguments to support dependability assurance of on-board computers hardware and software throughout the complete lifecycle, including an assessment of feasibility aspects of the dependability assurance process and how the use of computer-aided environment can contribute to the on-board computer dependability assurance.