RTCA/DO-254 Advanced verification methods such as Elemental Analysis, Formal Methods, Safety-Specific Verification Analysis, or other proposed and accepted methods are required to ensure evidence of design assurance.
DO-254 advanced verification methods are not required for Level E and Level D or Level C hardware; it is required in increasing degrees for Level B, and Level A hardware. Advanced methods such as Elemental Analysis, Formal Methods or Safety-Specific Verification Analysis can be used alone or in a combination of proposed verification and validation approach. Remember these are additional analyses assess the coverage of the existing functional and robustness tests to determine the degree to which those tests “covered” the design. “Covered” means exercised the applicable functions and Design, according to the D0-254 critical level.
Elemental Analysis:This analysis addresses every functional element of the Functional Failure Path (FFP) by identification and verification, using the tests developed to comply with the DO-254 section 6.1.This activity provides a bottom-up measurement of completeness of the testing. This analysis then can be augmented by additional tests or analysis when areas of concern are identified.
Safety Specific Analysis:
This analysis looks at the system-safety perspective, and identifies the design errors that could impact it. The portions of the hardware that are safety sensitive are analyzed. Using simulation these areas are evaluated for intended functions and anomalous behavior.
Formal Methods:
In order to substantiate the hardware design life cycle, a mathematical approach, using formal logic for specifications, requirements and design as well as verification of computer systems can be used to show complete verification and analysis.