Module dependency based incremental compiler and method
US5586328A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 1994 |
| Grant date | Dec 17, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F8/48
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A compiler and compiling method minimizes recompilation of a computer program after an edit. The program is organized in plural program units, such as modules. The units are each compiled through a sequence of compilation states, including plural intermediate compilation states. In compiling each of the program units, dependencies between units are recorded in a table. When an edit to a program unit is later attempted, the edited unit is decompiled to one of various intermediate compilation states according to the edit performed. Units dependent of the edited unit are decompiled to one of various intermediate compilation states according to the dependency of the dependent unit on the edited unit. When next compiling the program, the units are compiled from their respective intermediate compilation state. Units also can be saved in various intermediate compilation states to minimize compiling when the program is again loaded.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.