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Systems modeling & requirements specification using ECSAM: an analysis method for embedded & computer-based systems

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Abstract

Embedded computer system analysis and modeling (ECSAM) is a requirements engineering and modeling method for computer-based systems (CBS). It has been practiced and enhanced since 1980 by large numbers of systems and software engineers. ECSAM was developed in part at Israel Aircraft Industries for the analysis and design of complex reactive embedded systems and software. ECSAM guides the developers in systematic analysis and modeling of systems being developed. An ECSAM model portrays a system using three consistent and complementary views that address the system’s conceptual architecture, operating modes, and functional capabilities. Each capability is further analyzed and elaborated into a dynamic process. Using ECSAM it is possible to generate systematically the system’s operational scenarios. The modeling technique is applicable in the analysis of systems as well as lower-level subsystems. The method guides the developer in the derivation of the system requirements and their systematic allocation to and association with the model’s elements at various levels of the system’s conceptual model. ECSAM was the prime motive for the development of the Statecharts technology developed by Prof. David Harel as part of the method. Evolving versions of ECSAM have been taught extensively since 1980 in numerous university and industrial courses. The current paper presents an overview of the ECSAM method and illustrates its application and analysis products using a home alarm system (HAS) example. A full description of the method is provided in a book by the authors, published in 2005 [2].

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. CBSE Associates, 3 Tabenkin St., Ramat-Gan, Israel

    Jonah Z. Lavi

  2. Systems & Software Engineering, PO Box 492, Rehovot, Israel

    Joseph Kudish

Authors
  1. Jonah Z. Lavi
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  2. Joseph Kudish
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jonah Z. Lavi.

Additional information

This paper is an extended version of the keynote speech given at ECBS 2004 Conference, Brno, Czech Republic [1]

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Lavi, J., Kudish, J. Systems modeling & requirements specification using ECSAM: an analysis method for embedded & computer-based systems. Innovations Syst Softw Eng 1, 100–115 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11334-005-0010-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11334-005-0010-4

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