In: Autom. Control Comput. Sci., Vol. 24, No. 1, pages 1-8. 1990.
Abstract: The author deals with the formalization of the concept of protocol hierarchy within the framework of net theory. A formal definition of the concept of entity and of its points of interaction is introduced. An entity is defined as a Petri net, while interaction points are defined as the set of its markings. The operation of composition of entities is presented. A description is offered of the structure of protocol entities as a composition of entities describing the protocol and the service furnished and required. The concept of timer and of procedures for its use is formalized.
Keywords: protocol composition; protocol hierarchy; entity interaction; timer procedure.