OOPAL: integrating array programming in object-oriented programming

ABSTRACT

Array programming shines in its ability to express computations at a high-level of abstraction, allowing one to manipulate and query whole sets of data at once. This paper presents the OPA model that enhances object-oriented programming with array programming features. The goal of OPA is to determine a minimum set of modifications that must be made to the traditional object model in order to take advantage of the possibilities of array programming. It is based on a minimal extension of method invocation and the definition of a kernel of methods implementing fundamental array programming operations. The OPA model presents a generalization of traditional message passing in the sense that a message can be send to an entire set of objects. The model is validated in FS, a new scripting language.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.2 Language Classifications
          Subjects: Object-oriented languages

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.3 Language Constructs and Features

General Terms:
Design, Languages, Performance

Keywords:
array programming, f-script, high-level language, high-order messages, message pattern, smalltalk