scade

Scade, often written SCADE, is a family of model-based development tools for safety-critical embedded software. It provides graphical modeling, simulation, and automatic code generation intended to support the development of certified software for domains such as aviation, rail transport, and automotive safety systems. The technology originated with Esterel Technologies and has become widely used in industries that require rigorous verification and traceability of software requirements and implementation.

Central to Scade is a synchronous dataflow modeling language, based on Lustre, combined with hierarchical state machines. Engineers build components that process signals, describe control logic, and include timing constraints. The environment supports simulation, test benches, and formal checks, enabling early detection of design flaws before deployment. Generated code is typically C, designed to meet safety standards and to facilitate independent review, with traceability from requirements to code.

Scade is used to support safety certifications such as DO-178C/ED-12 for avionics, EN 50128 for rail, and ISO 26262 for automotive applications, often at high criticality levels. The toolchain provides features for requirements management, verification, code reviews, and integration with hardware-in-the-loop testing setups.

Common application areas include airplane flight control and flight management subsystems, braking and propulsion controls, railway interlocking and train protection systems, and various driver-assist or autonomous functions in road vehicles.