Collaborative Model-based Development of a Remote Train Monitoring System

The model-based engineering technique Reactive Blocks supports the development of reactive systems by UML-based graphic modeling of control and data flows, model checker supported analysis, and automated code generation. Moreover, it facilitates the cooperation of teams of engineers by enabling the definition of formally precise behavioral interfaces that make the separation of the modelling process into various work packages easy. In this paper, we illustrate the use of Reactive Blocks for a joint student project that realized the monitoring and control of Lego Mindstorms-based trains in Norway through a control center in Australia. In particular, we explain how the Reactive Blocks interfaces and the applied communication protocols were used to split the project into work packages separately handled by the students involved.