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OBSCURE a specification language for abstract data types

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Abstract

OBSCURE is a specification language for abstract data types. It differs from classical specification languages by handling models rather than theories. The goal of the paper is to present a complete and precise description ofOBSCURE.

First, the different language constructs are illustrated by the help of examples. The syntax and semantics of the language are then defined formally. The consistency of these definitions is stated in two theorems. Next, a set of formulas is associated with each specification. A further theorem states that these formulas guarantee the persistency or, more precisely, the absence of logical inconsistencies. A discussion of further language concepts-such as parameterization and strong typing-follows. Finally, a methodology for the development of software with the help ofOBSCURE is sketched and some practical results are presented.

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Research supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG).

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Lehmann, T., Loeckx, J. OBSCURE a specification language for abstract data types. Acta Informatica 30, 303–350 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01209709

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