Parameterized Aspect Calculus: A Core Calculus for the Direct Study of Aspect-Oriented Languages

Formal study of aspect-oriented languages is difficult because current theoretical models provide a range of features that is too limited and rely on encodings using lower-level abstractions, which involve a cumbersome level of indirection. We present a calculus, based on Abadi and Cardelli’s object calculus, that explicitly models a base language and a variety of point cut description languages. This explicit modeling makes clear the aspect-oriented features of the calculus by removing the indirection of some existing models. We demonstrate the generality of our calculus by presenting models for AspectJ’s open classes and advice, and HyperJ’s compositions, and sketching a model for DemeterJ’s adaptive methods.