Linking requirements and design data for automated functional evaluation

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology for automating the evaluation of complex hierarchical designs using black-box testing techniques. Based on an exploration model for design, this methodology generates evaluation tests using a novel semantic graph data model which captures the relationships between the related design and requirements data. Using these relationships, equivalent tests are generated and systematically applied to simulations of the pieces of a modular design and its requirements. These simulations yield two sets of comparable results, enabling evaluation of partial designs of a complex system early in their design process.