Specifying Imp(G) Using ASF+SDF: A Case Study

S. Vigna (University of Milan)

(Available as P9504-6.ps.gz)

Abstract

Imp(G) is a language based on distributive categories which allows to define uniformly classes of computable function arising from a basic set. The syntax of Imp(G) has been defined mathematically in terms of abstract syntax, so that any implementation has to face with a number of choices, ambiguities and polymorphisms of the categorical notation. In this paper we summarize the goals attained using ASF+SDF without resorting to hybrid functions. In particular, we describe how type checking was implemented equationally using the backtracking mechanism of list unification in order to obtain indifference to the associativity isomorphisms.