System Design Techniques

Course aim

To introduce students to mathematical techniques, methodologies and computer tools that can be used for modelling and analysing concurrent and distributed systems as part of a mathematically rigorous design process, with an emphasis on computer-based distributed systems and protocol design.

Course content

Techniques for modelling and analysing Discrete Event Systems. Introduction to Place/Transition (P/T) nets. Formal definition of P/T nets. Reachability Analysis. Petri net classes and properties. Relation to system properties and proof. Modelling with P/T nets. Modelling and analysis of communication protocols. Introduction to High-level Petri Nets. Coloured Petri Nets (CPNs). Analysis of CPNs. Reachability Graphs and their Strongly Connected Components. Reachability Graph construction. Modelling with CPNs. Coloured Petri net computer support tools. Application to a variety of systems, with emphasis on the design and analysis of simple communication protocols.

Textbook(s)

Nil

Prerequisite(s)

The course assumes knowledge of discrete mathematics. Knowledge of computer communications, state machines, and programming techniques including data structures is an advantage.

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES
Lecture	4 hours x weeks 1,2,3 & 6
Practical	2 hours x weeks 4,5,8,9,11 & 12
Lecture	2 hours x weeks 4,5 & 7 to 13

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Examination, Laboratory Portfolio, Test

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
Non-award tuition fees are set by the university. To determine the cost of this course, go to:
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Not all courses are available on all of the above bases, and students must check to ensure that they are permitted to enrol in a particular course.

* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.