QSMA - Tool Development for Qualification and Support of Avionics Systems

TU Clausthal's engagement in the QSMA project emphasizes its pivotal role in advancing software tool qualification for avionic systems, with a focus on multicore toolchain development. This involvement aligns with the rigorous requirements of DO-330 and DO-178C standards, highlighting the university’s dedication to elevating safety and efficiency in aviation software systems.

The QSMA project, anchored in the principles of DO-330 and DO-178C standards, revolves around the development and qualification of multicore software tools. These tools, ranging from the emmtrix Checker Tool to AbsInt's TimeWeaver and CompCert, are integral to ensuring the reliability and safety of parallel software in aviation systems. TU Clausthal’s expertise is pivotal in guiding the project through various phases – from requirements analysis, tool qualification kit (TQK) design, and implementation to demonstrator development and qualification kit assessment.

Central to the project is the development of a demonstrator, focusing on the Terrain Avoidance Warning System (TAWS), particularly the Forward-Looking Terrain Awareness (FLTA) component. TU Clausthal’s methodical approach, combining model-based designs with hand-written code, showcases their technical acumen. The project employs MATLAB/Simulink for model generation and leverages tools like ePS for code parallelization and AbsInt CompCert for compilation, illustrating a comprehensive development workflow. The university’s role extends to the meticulous assessment of TQKs provided by AbsInt and emmtrix. This assessment ensures that the TQKs meet the stringent TQL-5 requirements and are poised for an upgrade to TQL-4.

TU Clausthal's collaboration with industry partners like AbsInt and emmtrix demonstrates a blend of academic insight and practical application. Their involvement ranges from providing critical feedback on tool functionality and qualification kits to engaging in workshops for continuous improvement.

TU Clausthal’s contribution to the QSMA project underscores their pivotal role in enhancing the safety and reliability of avionic software systems. Through their expertise in software tool qualification, software development, and collaborative efforts, TU Clausthal reflects the its ongoing commitment to contribute thoughtfully in the field of safety-critical aviation software.