Transformational derivation of (parallel) programs using skeletons
Eerke Boiten, A.M. Geerling, H. Partsch · 1993
We describe a framework for the derivation of programs for arbitrary (in particular, parallel) architectures, motivated by a generalization of the derivation process for sequential algorithms. The central concept in this approach is that of a skeleton: on the one hand, a higher-order function for targeting transformational derivations at, on the other hand representing an elementary computation on the architecture aimed at. Skeletons thus form a basis for intermediate languages, that can be implemented once and for all, as a process separate from individual program developments. The available knowledge on the derivation of (higher-order) functional programs can be used for deriving parallel ones. This paper presents an overview of the method, illustrated with an example (trapezoidal rule on SIMD processor array), and ideas for future research. 1 Introduction and overview The introduction of various computer networks and parallel computers in recent years has led to a large increase in...