An automatic class generation mechanism by using method integration

This paper presents a mechanism for automatically generating new classes fr om classes existing in a library by using their modification histories. To generate classes that are likely to meet programmer's requirements and that are consistent with the existing classes, we propose three actors, a Speci fier, a Finder, and an Integrator. The Specifier records the history of mod ifications between methods with the same interface of a parent class and it s heir. If the required method is not defined in the existing class which a programmer is referring to, the Finder retrieves classes similar to the re ferenced class and the Integrator applies the past modifications of similar classes to the referenced class. Classes are determined to be similar base d on their positions in a class hierarchy tree. Both the Specifier and Inte grator are achieved by using a method integration algorithm based on object -oriented bounded program slicing and class dependence graph matching. This mechanism enables programmers to reuse classes with little or no modificat ion and, thus, easily create object-oriented programs.