Logical observable entities

ABSTRACT

We show how finite-state machines can standardize the protocol used by a component object to notify other interested objects of its state changes, resulting in a more effective use of static types to constrain both parties, and a more efficient dissemination of information. The enhanced component specification is called a logical observable entity, or LOE. We address two key issues in effectively applying such a strategy: how to extend subtyping to consider the state machines, and how to ensure some kind of compliance between the state-machine specification and its implementation. This leads to an unusual subtyping predicate for LOEs on the one hand, and a prototype code generation strategy on the other.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  F. Theory of Computation
  F.1 COMPUTATION BY ABSTRACT DEVICES
      F.1.1 Models of Computation
          Subjects: Automata (e.g., finite, push-down, resource-bounded)

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS

  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.0 General
          Subjects: Standards

General Terms:
Design, Measurement, Performance, Standardization, Theory, Verification