An Improvement Method for Program Structure Using Code Clone Detection, Impact Analysis, and Refactoring Formats

This paper proposes a method that aggregates similar portions (code clones) in the developed program and redesigns the current program structure to an adequate program structure. The procedure of the proposed method is the following: Code clones are detected, and their characteristics are extracted, the design methods that code clones are aggregated are proposed, the program is modified, and the affected portions in the program are clarified and retested. Furthermore, a tool that supports the proposed method is created. As a result of applying the proposed method and the tool, it is found that 45% CCs are aggregated and 13% instructions of the program are deleted. Additionally, it is found that an adequate program structure is realized by using the proposed method and the tool.