Algebraic specification of abstract data type and transition graphs: formal techniques for object-oriented analysis, specification and design

A transition graph is a formal tool dedicated to the specification of communicant processes. However, we show that it is a useful way to analyse and specify the behaviour of objects of the real world in order to model them in the form of classes. This paper presents the transition graphs theory. The class model features and establishes the relationship between these two concepts. Then we show how to describe and model an entity of the real world with a transition graph and the techniques allowing us to automatically generate a corresponding class. This study has allowed us to develop a graphic software tool which, from a transition graph, enables us to generate an algebraic specification and a class.