Predicate diagrams as basis for the verification of reactive systems

Abstract

This thesis proposes a diagram-based formalism for verifying temporal properties of reactive systems. Diagrams integrate deductive and algorithmic verification techniques for the verification of finite and infinite-state systems, thus combining the expressive power and flexibility of deduction with the automation provided by algorithmic methods. Our formal framework for the specification and verification of reactive systems includes the Generalized Temporal Logic of Actions (TLA *) from MERZ for both mathematical modeling reactive systems and specifying temporal properties to be verified. As verification method we adopt a class of diagrams, the so-called predicate diagrams from CANSELL et al. We show that the concept of predicate diagrams can be used to verify not only discrete systems, but also some more complex classes of reactive systems such as real-time systems and parameterized systems. We define two variants of predicate diagrams, namely timed predicate diagrams and parameterized predicate diagrams, which can be used to verify real-time and parameterized systems. We prove the completeness of predicate diagrams and study an approach for the generation of predicate diagrams. We develop prototype tools that can be used for supporting the generation of diagrams semi-automatically.