Software Design Prototyping Using Ada.
Abstract
The investigation of the methodology for software design prototyping using Ada as a program design language (PDL) involves taking a system engineering approach to software development. A proposal is made to express design characteristics as Ada programs in an effort to provide executability of the design from its earliest specification. This approach is subsequently given more substance by an examination of the methodology from three distinct perspectives: 1) The qualities of an ideal PDL are put forth and Ada is compared with this idealized PDL; Ada compares favorably with this model in most, if not all, areas; 2) The qualities of an ideal software prototype are specified, and the Ada prototype program is measured against this idealized prototype. Ada exhibits a number of characteristics that lend themselves well to the gradual refinement of a prototype program; it also shows itself to be highly supportive of testing and validation of the design as that design matures. It is found that a prototype developed in Ada, using this methodology, offers distinct advantages over the traditional software development; and 3) A step-by-step guide to the use of Ada as a PDL in a design prototyping environment is given. Additional keywords: high level programming languages; test beds; ACSIS (AEGIS Combat System Interface Simulator).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA154825
Entities
People
- M. J. Kuchinski
- M. W. Masters
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division