Extensible Meta-Data Class Definition in Array-Based Languages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing programming languages, such as JAVA and CLR, lack a mechanism to extend meta-data classes and specify custom data storage systems, leading to limitations in data management and class definition flexibility, particularly in dynamically typed array-based languages.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for defining classes in a dynamically typed array-based programming language using meta-data, allowing for extension of class definitions without backward incompatibility, through the use of meta-data to describe attributes, methods, and events, and enabling flexible data storage and access mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing programming languages use fixed meta-data classes to describe classes, then language processing is simplified, but flexibility in data management and class definition is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixed meta-data class into multiple extensible components. Instead of a monolithic meta-data structure, the system divides meta-data into base properties and optional extensions, allowing selective customization without redesigning the entire meta-data system. This enables flexible class definitions while maintaining a manageable core structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines fixed meta-data classes with user-defined extensions into a unified meta-data system. The base meta-data class provides standard functionality, while extension classes allow customization. These merged components work together seamlessly, providing both the simplicity of fixed structures and the flexibility of extensible design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If all classes use the same system for storing data, then memory management is simplified, but the ability to use different data storage mechanisms is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces meta-data as an intermediary layer between the uniform memory management system and diverse data storage requirements. The meta-data structure acts as a mediator that translates standard memory operations into application-specific data access patterns, allowing different storage mechanisms while maintaining operational simplicity through a unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the data storage system dynamic by allowing the meta-data to specify different storage mechanisms based on the class requirements. Instead of a static one-size-fits-all approach, the system dynamically selects appropriate storage methods through meta-data configuration, enabling both flexibility and ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If meta-data classes cannot be extended, then language processing is simpler, but customization capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the meta-data system for extension in advance by designing the base meta-data class with extensibility built-in. The preliminary design includes mechanisms for inheritance and customization, so that when extension is needed, the infrastructure is already in place. This reduces the complexity burden during actual customization while maintaining high extensibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A class definition syntax that leverages the array and math-oriented nature of a dynamically typed array-based programming language is discussed. Some embodiments of the present invention provides a mechanism for using meta-data to define a class implemented in the dynamically typed array-based programming language. The meta-data provide an easy way to provide class definitions and allow a user to access the class definitions from objects. The meta-data also support extension of class definitions without introducing backward incompatibility.