EASE: an embedded algebraic specification environment

Abstract

An attempt is made to apply ideas about algebraic specification in the context of a programming language, EASE, an embedded algebraic specification environment, is developed based on a Pascal-oriented iterative programming environment FPE by allowing embedded algebraic specification (EAS) in the place of Pascal code. It provides a framework for the formal development of a program from a specification. The authors discuss the design of EAS and the use of EASE as a term rewriting system. In general, EASE can automatically generate code for any formally specified object by term rewriting, and can immediately execute and test this object. Therefore, it can be used as a tool for support program development, program prototyping, and specification reuse.<>