Static detection of equivalent mutants in real-time model-based mutation testing

Abstract Model-based mutation testing has the potential to effectively drive test generation reveal faults in software systems. However, it faces a typical efficiency issue since could produce many mutants that are equivalent original system model, making impossible generate cases from them. We consider this problem when model-based is applied real-time product lines, represented as timed automata. define novel, time-specific operators and formulate mutant frame of refinement relations. Further, we study which yields an mutant. Our theoretical results provide guidance engineers, allowing them eliminate mutations no case can be produced. empirical evaluation, based on proof-of-concept implementation set benchmarks literature, confirms validity our theory demonstrates general approach avoid significant amount mutants.