Title :
Integrating runtime assertions with dynamic types: structuring a derivation from an incomputable specification
Author :
Bailes, Paul A. ; Kemp, Colin J M
Author_Institution :
Sch. of Inf. Technol. & Electr. Eng., Queensland Univ., St. Lucia, Qld., Australia
Abstract :
An inherent incomputability in the specification of a functional language extension that combines assertions with dynamic type checking is isolated in an explicit derivation from mathematical specifications. The combination of types and assertions (into "dynamic assertion-types" - DATs) is a significant issue since, because the two are congruent means for program correctness, benefit arises from their better integration in contrast to the harm resulting from their unnecessary separation. However, projecting the "set membership" view of assertion-checking into dynamic types results in some incomputable combinations. Refinement of the specification of DAT checking into an implementation by rigorous application of mathematical identities becomes feasible through the addition of a "best-approximate" pseudo-equality that isolates the incomputable component of the specification. This formal treatment leads to an improved, more maintainable outcome with further development potential.
Keywords :
formal specification; formal verification; functional languages; DAT checking; assertion-checking; dynamic assertion-types; functional language extension; incomputable specification; mathematical specification; program correctness; runtime assertion integration; Algebra; Application software; Australia; Computer applications; Formal specifications; Information technology; Manuals; Runtime;
Conference_Titel :
Computer Software and Applications Conference, 2003. COMPSAC 2003. Proceedings. 27th Annual International
Print_ISBN :
0-7695-2020-0
DOI :
10.1109/CMPSAC.2003.1245389