Semantics-based composition of class hierarchies

Abstract

Class hierarchy composition aims at constructing software systems by composing a set of class hierarchies into an executable system. Current composition algorithms cannot provide semantic guarantees. We present a composition algorithm, together with an interference criterion and its correctness proof, which guarantees that behavior of the original hierarchies is preserved for interference-free compositions. In case of interference, an impact analysis can determine the consequences of integration. The method is based on existing program analysis technology and is illustrated by various examples.