Abstract
We describe a formalization of an abstract machine very similar to the Java Virtual Machine but far simpler. We develop techniques for specifying the properties of classes and methods for this machine. We develop techniques for mechanically proving theorems about classes and methods.We discuss two such proofs, that of a static method implementing the factorial function and of an instance method that destructively manipulates objects in a way that takes advantage of inheritance. We conclude with a brief discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. The formalization and proofs are done with the ACL2 theorem proving system.
Acknowledgments
I am especially grateful to Rich Cohen, who patiently explained his ACL2 model of his “defensive” Java Virtual Machine, upon which my TJVM is modeled. I am also very grateful to the undergraduates at UT to whom I have taught the TJVM, as well as my teaching assistant for that course last year, Pete Manolios.
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Moore, J.S. (1999). Proving Theorems About Java-Like Byte Code. In: Olderog, ER., Steffen, B. (eds) Correct System Design. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 1710. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-48092-7_7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-48092-7_7
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