Abstract
Formal methods in interactive systems can be used to analyse how systems support use with a clarity that is not possible with more traditional development approaches. However, the processes involved are complicated and do not fit well with those whose primary concern is user interfaces. The paper reflects on the tools that are used and the problems that hinder their accessibility. It comments on tool developments that could lead to wider use of these techniques. The role that existing methods and tools can play in analysing interactive systems will be explored through concrete examples involving the use of the PVS theorem proving assistant and the IVY toolset. Examples will focus on:
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the formulation and validation of models of interactive systems;
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the expression of use related requirements, particularly in the context of usability engineering and safety analysis;
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the generation of proofs that requirements hold true and making sense when proof fails.
Examples will be taken from existing standalone medical devices including examples from part of a safety analysis of a device leading to product.
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Acknowledgments
Josè Creissac Campos and Paolo Masci have made very substantial contributions to the work illustrated in this paper.
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Harrison, M.D. (2020). Examples of the Application of Formal Methods to Interactive Systems. In: Sekerinski, E., et al. Formal Methods. FM 2019 International Workshops. FM 2019. Lecture Notes in Computer Science(), vol 12232. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-54994-7_31
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