Yogananda Jeppu

Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of contributing to the analysis, design, implementation, verification, validation, and certification of safety-critical control systems. Today, I'm excited to share my journey in exploring formal correctness proofs for Neural Networks and Artificially Intelligent circuits in safety-critical systems, with the ultimate goal of achieving their certification for on-board applications. I firmly believe in the importance of considering certification right from the project's inception. Having been part of "Stage of Involvement #4" (SOI4 - Certification) in six safety-critical aerospace DO 178B Level A software projects, I've seen firsthand the benefits of this approach. In 2019, I successfully completed a DO 178C and DO 331 Model-Based Certification of a radar system, reinforcing my commitment to industry standards and best practices. My journey has led to the development of control theoretic coverage metrics for control system elemental blocks, a crucial aspect of achieving comprehensive testing and functional coverage optimization. Advocating for Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and modeling flight control and guidance systems has been a cornerstone of my career. MBSE allows us to bridge the gap between requirements, safety, development, testing, and certification, ensuring a holistic approach to system development. My expertise also extends to model-based test automation, where I've utilized techniques such as Genetic Algorithms, Simulated Annealing, Design of Experiments, Orthogonal Arrays, and Randomization/Selection to optimize testing for safety-critical systems. Beyond theory, I've designed and demonstrated aircraft and helicopter flight control systems, providing a practical reference for engineers. Teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate engineering students has been a fulfilling part of my journey, and I'm passionate about passing on the knowledge I've acquired. I have been selected to the IEEE Systems Council Distinguished Lecturer Program for 2024-2026! My involvement in ISO and BIS committees for UAS Testing and Development, as well as System Resilience, reinforces my commitment to shaping industry standards and ensuring the safe integration of new technologies, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS). As I reflect on my 35 years in the field, I remain dedicated to my mission of learning from past mistakes and preventing new ones, especially as new technologies continue to shape the landscape of safety-critical systems. #SafetyCriticalSystems #Certification #EngineeringExcellence