Efficient Execution of Functional Language Programs: Algorithm Design and Program Optimization

摘要

The goal of this project was to investigate algorithm design and program optimization for the functional language architecture. Because the architecture has not yet been realized in hardware, these studies were necessarily either analytical or based on simulations. The problem was attacked from a variety of directions. Most fundamental was that of machine design; since the beginning of the grant period, we have come to understand the implications of the design better, and as a consequence, describe it better and propose better implementations. Additionally, we have refined and extended the design, providing answers to a number of questions that had not been previously addressed. Additionally, we worked on the question of making the machine an appropriate one for solving a broader class of problems than had previously been considered. These investigations were all done in conjunction with our considerations of particular applications that were chosen on the basis of their widespread use and their exhibiting characteristics of fundamental importance.