An object model with feature-based dispatch for context-sensitive behavior in distributed systems

Feature-based composition essentially complements object-oriented composition by enabling the coherent extension of multiple entities (objects, classes) such that an integral feature can be the subject of composition – rather than fragments of features. The conventional object model of state-of-the-art OO programming languages does not incorporate the notion of feature dispatch however, and, therefore, the application developer must design and implement it by hand. This paper presents an enhanced object model that incorporates feature-based dispatch, based on the notion of feature identifiers. Relying on this model, message senders can affect feature dispatch by specifying the required features on the basis of a simple identifier. In this context, sender-initiated late binding is particularly relevant when clients customize the functionality of remote services by selecting feature identifiers instead of manipulating remote references in complicated middleware. An Object Model with Feature-Based Dispatch for Context-Sensitive Behavior in Distributed Systems Eddy Truyen and Wouter Joosen Dept. of Computer Science K.U.Leuven. Belgium [email protected]