A RELATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE INTEGRATION OF SPECIFICATIONS

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Boiten, Eerke | Derrick, John

Affiliations: Computing Laboratory, University of Kent at Canterbury, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NF, U.K.

Abstract: We describe a framework for viewpoint specification using formal specification languages. In order to establish consistency and to further develop specifications, specifications need to be integrated ("unified"). This integration is not defined in terms of their semantics, but more abstractly in terms of, so-called, development relations, which represent acceptable "developments" (e.g., refinements) of each of the viewpoint specifications. The framework is motivated by its instantiations with a number of specification languages (e.g., LOTOS and Z) and different development relations.

Keywords: viewpoints, consistency, refinement, heterogeneous specification, partial specification, formal development

Journal: Journal of Integrated Design & Process Science, vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 39-48, 2003