Some Models and Tools for Open Systems

TL;DR

This paper discusses models and tools for open systems, emphasizing a game-based approach and introducing a new interface model called sociable interface for better specification and implementation.

Contribution

It introduces sociable interfaces, a novel model that enhances specification, reusability, and symbolic implementation of open systems within a game-theoretic framework.

Findings

Game-based approach unifies various open system models

Sociable interfaces improve specification and reusability

Enhanced symbolic implementation efficiency

Abstract

In computer science, there is a distinction between closed systems, whose behavior is totally determined in advance, and open systems, that are systems maintaining a constant interaction with an unspecified environment. Closed systems are naturally modeled by transitions systems. Open systems have been modeled in various ways, including process algebras, I/O automata, ``modules'', and interfaces. Games provide a uniform setting in which all these models can be cast and compared. In this paper, we discuss the features and costs related to the game-based approach to open systems, referring to some of the existing models. Finally, we describe a new model of interface, called sociable interface, which is geared towards easier specification, improved reusability of models, and efficient symbolic implementation.