Test Languages for In-the-Loop Avionics Tests

Abstract

The current state of the art of in-the-loop testing of avionics embedded systems is very heterogeneous, with many different in-house test languages, and it is unable to respond to the evolving needs of the stakeholders in this field. To lay the foundations of more homogeneous test development solutions, this paper offers an overview and analysis of the features of six different test languages. Best practices and pitfalls to avoid are discussed. The analysis focuses on four major categories of features: test organization, abstraction of and access to the system under test interfaces, test language instructions, and time management. Four of the test languages in the sample set are currently employed in the field of avionics. The other two, used, respectively, in the automotive and telecommunications industries, have been chosen for comparison purposes. The paper reports the key findings of the analysis and presents the resulting ongoing research work.