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Comparison of data and process refinement

Abstract
When is it reasonable, or possible, to refine a one place buffer into a two place buffer? In order to answer this question we characterise refinement based on substitution in restricted contexts. We see that data refinement (specifically in Z) and process refinement give differing answers to the original question, and we compare the precise circumstances which give rise to this difference by translating programs and processes into labelled transition systems, so providing a common basis upon which to make the comparison. We also look at the closely related area of subtyping of objects. Along the way we see how all these sorts of computational construct are related as far as refinement is concerned, discover and characterise some (as far as we can tell) new sorts of refinement and, finally, point up some research avenues for the future.
Type
Working Paper
Type of thesis
Series
Computer Science Working Papers
Citation
Reeves, S. & Streader, D. (2003). Comparison of data and process refinement. (Working paper 05/03). Hamilton, New Zealand: University of Waikato, Department of Computer Science.
Date
2003-05
Publisher
University of Waikato, Department of Computer Science
Degree
Supervisors
Rights