Method and apparatus for generating a translator program for a compiler/interpreter and for testing the resulting translator program

摘要

A translator writing system develops a translator program capable of transforming a user's source code into object code. The language of the source code is summarized in a unique form, namely, a Backus-Nauer Form (BNF). This BNF form of the source code is utilized by the translator writing system to transform the source code into object code. The BNF form takes into account the attribute specifications associated with the language of the source code and the interaction of the attribute specifications in the grammar of the language of the source code. The translator writing system includes a valid testcase generator for testing the developed translator program utilizing every possible correct program statement in the language of the user's source code. The translator writing system further includes an incorrect, invalid testcase generator for testing the developed translator program utilizing every possible incorrect, invalid program statement in the language of the user's source code. As a result, the amount of effort required to test the developed translator program has been significantly reduced.