Publication

Extensible Algebraic Datatypes with Defaults

Martin Odersky, Matthias Zenger
2001
Conference Papers

Abstract

A major problem for writing extensible software arises when recursively defined datatypes and operations on these types have to be extended simultaneously without modifying existing code. This paper introduces Extensible Algebraic Datatypes with Defaults which promote a simple programming pattern to solve this well known problem. We show that it is possible to encode extensible algebraic datatypes in an object-oriented language, using a new design pattern for extensible visitors. Extensible algebraic datatypes have been successfully applied in the implementation of an extensible Java compiler. Our technique allows for the reuse of existing components in compiler extensions without the need for any adaptations.

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/9cbdcaeb-9f99-4182-bac2-360d6c078819

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Martin Odersky, Matthias Zenger
2001
Conference Papers

Abstract

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/9cbdcaeb-9f99-4182-bac2-360d6c078819

About this result

Related concepts (32)

Software design pattern

In software engineering, a software design pattern is a general, reusable solution to a commonly occurring problem within a given context in software design. It is not a finished design that can be transformed directly into source or machine code. Rather, it is a description or template for how to solve a problem that can be used in many different situations. Design patterns are formalized best practices that the programmer can use to solve common problems when designing an application or system.

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Design pattern

A design pattern is the re-usable form of a solution to a design problem. The idea was introduced by the architect Christopher Alexander and has been adapted for various other disciplines, particularly software engineering. An organized collection of design patterns that relate to a particular field is called a pattern language. This language gives a common terminology for discussing the situations designers are faced with. The elements of this language are entities called patterns.

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