Compiler structure engineering with attribute grammars

Abstract

In this paper are discussed the concepts of a compiler structure design system and its prototype implementation .In order to obtain the pass structure based on the properties of the deterministic left to right evaluable attribute grammars we use short path algorithms for directed graphs. An algorithm for assignment of attributes to separate passes is shown. We propose a method for extension of the deterministic left to right evaluable attribute grammars with global data . Futher we describe the approach of a syntax oriented modularization for specifying the compiler structure.Using this research as a base we developed the CSD system (Compiler Structure Design) . The CSD system is a compiler engineering tool providing facilities for specification of compilers and for design of their pass, intermediate program and module structure. The main components of the system are also shown and its use for development of a COBOL compiler are discussed.