A Formal Approach to Design Pattern Definition & Application

In this paper we present a formal approach to define and apply design patterns that is both process- and reuse-oriented. Initially we use a process program based on design pattern primitive tasks or constructors to describe how to instantiate a pattern. As we develop the patterns we introduce a formal model for the interconnected objects that constitute the instantiation. The formal model which is based on Abstract Data Views divides designs into both objects and views in order to maintain a separation of concerns. We have chosen a formal model for pattern definition and application since it allows us to specify the steps in pattern instantiation unambiguously and to reason about the completed design. Furthermore, a formal statement of the application of a design pattern can provide the foundation on which to build tools to assist the programmer in code generation