Automated component retrieval and adaptation using formal specifications

This paper describes a method for applying formal specifica- tions to automate a system design process based on reusable components and architectures. The focus is on identifica- tion and retrieval of components pertinent to a problem, and selection and application of architectures available for a dapt- ing these components. Component retrieval is facilitated by a heuristic based on specification semantics for approximat- ing specification matches that indicate component reusability. To support adaptation, a formal model of architectures is de- veloped that uses algebraic theories to specify relationsh ips between the system and component specifications. Adapta- tion is performed by placing or replacing components within an architecture theory.