Advanced Model-Based Engineering and Reasoning
We build abstract models of computing systems to help us design better systems.
What we do
We build abstract models of computing systems, so that we can design better systems. These models allow us to thoroughly test designs and explore alternatives.
The Advanced Model-Based Engineering and Reasoning (AMBER) group contributes to research in:
- Cyber-Physical Systems
- Modelling Algorithms and Theory
Aims
Our work helps contain risk.
We equip engineers with methods and tools to explore, verify and refine the properties of complex systems. We do this through models with well-founded semantics.
Through this model-based engineering, we can permit detection of optimal and defective designs long before committing to implementations on real hardware.
What we’re working on
We’re applying model-based methods to develop and manage some of the most demanding computing systems. These include:
- systems rich in concurrency
- systems that combine computing (cyber), physical and human elements
- biological systems
- 'systems of systems', composed of independent, autonomous systems
Our work on asynchronous circuit design, implemented in Workcraft, was adopted by Dialog Semiconductor. This work created the basis for UoA_Workcraft ICS.
About Dialog Semiconductor
Dialog Semiconductor is the exclusive supplier of power management integrated circuits for the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.
They have funded two PhDs and two US patents.
David Lloyd, a senior member of their technical staff, is now a close contact with AMBER and is a Visiting Professor of Practice in the School of Computing.
AMBERs expertise in verified software design was used to commercialise persufflation as a proven technique for organ preservation through ScubaTx.
ScubaTx was established through collaboration between:
- Newcastle University’s medical researchers
- Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Our work with Cyber-Physical Systems included probabilistic and stochastic aspects in:
- simulation of big bleed trauma emergencies with Royal London Hospital
- Newcastle infant dialysis and ultrafiltration system (Nidus) CE marking and commercialisation with Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI)
- EMV2 security analysis of EMV contactless credit and debit cards
Leiden University and Aarhus University have contributed over 40 research outputs since 2014.
We also work with industry members, including:
- MindSphere, Siemens
- Centre for Digital Built Britain: Analysing systems interdependencies using a digital twin
- Digital Twins for Resilient Geo-Infrastructure
- DECIDe for Rail Systems and Safety Board
- Royston Company: New AI techniques in a maritime context
The future of AMBER
Over the next 5 years, our plan is to develop AMBERs international profile in formal model-based methods for asynchronous and cyber-physical systems.
Applications in development
We’re actively developing methodologies and tools for:
- supporting criminal investigations based on causality
- model-based engineering in infrastructure and the built environment
Our research focus
- Stochastic and hybrid systems modelling and verification: We’re dedicated to making a meaningful impact through foundational work in stochastic and hybrid systems modelling and verification. Our focus is on developing cutting-edge tools and methodologies that not only advance the field but also attract and retain experts in these areas.
- Asynchronous circuits: We're focussing on developing novel technologies for the design of asynchronous circuits.
- Engineering digital twins for Cyber-Physical Systems: We’re creating well-founded tool chains that enable the engineering of digital twins for Cyber-Physical Systems. These digital twins serve as virtual replicas, facilitating better understanding, analysis, and optimisation of complex systems.