Object-oriented parallel paradigms

M.Sc. (Computer Science)This report is primarily concerned with highlighting fmdings of a research recently undertaken towards completing the requirements for the M.Sc. degree of 1994 at the Rand Afrikaans University (RAU). The research is aimed at striving to investigate what benefits (if any) exist in Object-Oriented Parallel Systems. The area of research revolves around the Object-Oriented Parallel Paradigm (OOPP) which is currently under development by the author. One primary aim of this research is to investigate numerous current trends in Object-Oriented Parallel Systems and Language Developments with the objective of providing an indication as to whether the Object-Oriented methodology can be (or has been) successfully married with existing Parallel Processing mechanisms. New benefits may come about while attempting to combine these methodologies, and this expectation will also be reflected upon. The Object-Oriented methodology allows a system designer the ability to approach a problem with a good degree of problem space understanding; while Parallel Processing allows the system designer the ability to create extremely fast algorithms for solving problems amenable to Parallel Processing techniques. The question we attempt to answer is whether the Object-Oriented methodology can be successfully married to the Parallel Processing field (whilst maintaining a high degree of benefits encountered in both methodologies) so as to gain the best of both worlds. Certain papers have laid claim to their proposed system encompassing both the Object-Oriented methodology, as well as the Parallel Processing methodology. In view of this fact, we shall furthermore examine papers to see if any of these systems are candidates for successfully marrying Object-Oriented and Parallel Processing into one homogeneous body. Criticism will be given on the shortcomings of unsuccessful candidates. Based on the findings of the research, the report will culminate to the proposal of the Object-Oriented Parallel Paradigm (OOPP). OOPP will speculate on the most probable features that system designers can expect to see in an almost ideal Object-Oriented Parallel System. It is very important at this stage to mention that, at its current state of development, OOPP is only a paradigm; thus OOPP should be viewed merely as an abstract model intended to establish a solid foundation for building more formal Object-Oriented Parallel Methodologies. Furthermore, OOPP is intended to be suitable for present day systems and amenable (possibly with a few minor adjustments) to future systems. The author trusts OOPP to generate sufficient interest to warrant further research being commissioned. In this event, OOPP should be expected to undergo modifications and enhancements..