Hostname: page-component-7c8c6479df-8mjnm Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-03-29T04:06:36.558Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Computation Algebras

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 September 2001

MICHAŁ WALICKI
Affiliation:
University of Bergen, Department of Informatics, P.Box 7800, N-5020 Bergen, Norway; Email: michal.walicki@ii.uib.no
MAGNE HAVERAAEN
Affiliation:
University of Bergen, Department of Informatics, P.Box 7800, N-5020 Bergen, Norway; Email: magne.haveraaen@ii.uib.no
SIGURD MELDAL
Affiliation:
CalPoly, Computer Science Department, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA; Email: smeldal@calpoly.edu

Abstract

We introduce a framework that generalizes algebraic specifications by equipping algebras with descriptions of evaluation strategies. The resulting abstract mathematical description allows one to model the implementation of algebras on various platforms in a way that is independent of the function-oriented specifications.

We study algebras with associated data dependencies. The latter provide separate means for modelling computational aspects apart from the functional specifications captured by an algebra. The formalization of evaluation strategies (1) introduces increased portability among different hardware platforms, and (2) allows a potential increase in execution efficiency, since a chosen evaluation strategy may be tailored to a particular platform. We present the development process where algebraic specifications are equipped with data dependencies, the latter are refined, and, finally, mapped to actual hardware architectures.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
2001 Cambridge University Press

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

Footnotes

The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support received from the Norwegian Research Council (NFR).