Complex systems, which typically require rigorous safety justifications, are increasingly common in marine vehicles. Model-Based Design fully describes the operation of a system in an executable model and helps manage complexity. When used at a system level, Model-Based Design facilitates development and integration.

This presentation gives an overview of the Model Descriptive Development Process (MDDP). MDDP combines Model-Based Design with the text-based requirement approach traditionally used to meet safety justifications. The presentation also describes the methods used to break down the requirements and confirm correct implementation within an FPGA. Finally, it reviews lessons learned from 10 years’ experience of employing MathWorks tools to generate HDL for safety critical systems.