Specification matching of state-based modular components

  • Authors:
  • David Hemer

  • Affiliations:
  • -

  • Venue:
  • APSEC '03 Proceedings of the Tenth Asia-Pacific Software Engineering Conference Software Engineering Conference
  • Year:
  • 2003

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Abstract

Retrieval of software components from a library relies on techniquesfor matching user requirements against library componentinterfaces. In this paper we introduce a number of techniquesfor matching formally specified, state-based modules. These techniqueswill form the basis for retrieval tool support. The techniquesdescribed in this paper build on existing specificationmatching methods, based on individual functions, specified usingpre- and post-conditions. We begin by defining a basic modulematching technique, based on matching the individual units withina module. We consider variations of this technique that take intoaccount two important features of modules: the visibility of moduleentities; and the use of state invariants. An advanced technique,based on data refinement and the use of coupling invariants,is also described.