Resolve POINTER_CAST and Pointer Serialization

[LeStarch]

POINTER_CAST may be used for serialization, but it is machine dependent. We should investigate.

[matt392code]

pointer-serialization.txt
Code addresses:

1. Platform Independence:

• Uses uintptr_t for consistent pointer handling
• Implements byte-by-byte serialization for endianness control
• Stores pointer size information for cross-platform validation

2. Safety Features:

• Validates pointer size during deserialization
• Checks alignment requirements
• Provides a framework for runtime pointer validation

3. F Prime Integration:

• Follows F Prime serialization patterns
• Implements proper error handling using SerializeStatus
• Maintains compatibility with existing F Prime components

To implement this solution:

1. Replace direct POINTER_CAST usage with SafePointerSerializer
2. Add validation checks appropriate for your specific use case
3. Define valid memory ranges for pointer validation
4. Consider adding additional metadata for pointer type validation

[thomas-bc]

@LeStarch is this ticket being addressed by #3286 ?

[LeStarch]

Sort-of. This ticket needs to document the expected use case for PointerCastType:

1. Exactly the size of pointer on the system
2. Set to some serializable type
3. Not to leave the system.

[LeStarch]

I added this as a sub-issue for the parent. It will now be handled within the context of the work.