We introduce a pattern language for using formal methods in computer system engineering. We focus on the Z notation, but many of the patterns are adaptable to other formal notations, or can be used to help choose a notation, or to decide on a style of formality. As in other pattern languages, we are providing a new presentation of existing practice, to make it accessible to computer systems engineering. We propose an initial classification of Z patterns, present selected examples, and outline issues of tool support.
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@inproceedings(SS-ZB-03,
author = "Susan Stepney and Fiona Polack and Ian Toyn",
title = "An Outline Pattern Language for {Z}:
five illustrations and two tables",
pages = "2--19",
crossref = "ZB-03"
)
@proceedings(ZB-03,
title = "ZB2003: Third International Conference of B and Z Users,
Turku, Finland",
booktitle = "ZB2003: Third International Conference of B and Z Users,
Turku, Finland",
editor = "Didier Bert and Jonathan P. Bowen and Steve King and Marina Walden",
series = "LNCS",
volume = 2651,
publisher = "Springer",
year = 2003
)