Using Partial-Orders for Detecting Faults in Concurrent Systems

The paper suggests test derivation approaches to obtain test suites for concurrent systems based on the concept of fault coverage criteria in opposition to structural test coverage criteria. Using a partial-order model, called Mazurkiewicz Trace Machine (MTM), for test derivation, the state explosion problem can be alleviated. The derived test suites are characterized by their small size compared to test suites from traditional test derivation approaches and exhibit a defined degree of fault coverage according to certain fault models. The fault models of concurrent systems considered in the paper are based on the most common faults, acceptance, refusal, and transfer faults. A scenario of test execution in concurrent systems, including a suitable test architecture, is discussed that explains the application of a test suite derived from an MTM in a test run.