Analyzing Fault Behaviors in Multi-Domain Systems with Contract-Based Monitors

Industrial control systems need to be highly reliable and precise at all times to ensure operational efficiency and prevent costly downtime. Early fault detection is crucial and is partially realized by runtime monitoring components. A correct-by-construction approach based on contract specifications allows early intervention in case of potential faults. In this paper, we suggest to combine the time-sensitive behavioral contracts with a multi-domain system model specifically designed for fault injection to improve the model as well as the contract specification at design time. This allows for early detection of potential faults and a more reliable system specification based on the analyzed behavior. We successfully realized a co-simulation environment comprising a fault-injection tool and contract-based monitors. We discussed the proposed approach using the example of a DC motor highlighting the benefits and potential enhancements of this systematic methodology.