PENGUIN: A Language for Reactive Graphical User Interfaces
Abstract
PENGUIN (Programming Environment for Graphical User Interfaces) is a computer language that supports grammar-based specification of control flow in event-driven graphical programs. The PENGUIN model of intercomponent connection extends and subsumes the older Seeheim model of UIMS design, allowing large programs to be constructed as co-operating components. Traditional approaches to graphical program design have treated the user interface code as something that can be written independently of the application. This dissertation argues that the reactive nature of graphical programs should be taken into account from the beginning of design, that a graphical program be composed as a collection of modules whose input behavior is specified, and that modules be grouped into separately-compiled components along lines of clear division of labour and responsibility for resources. Such partitions result in components that are more likely to be reusable. Our experiences indicate that the use of PENQUIN can reduce the volume of user interface code by a factor of two to three and result in code which is clearer than functionally equivalent code using traditional control structures. Uniform handling of I/O and signals as PENQUIN events leads to programs that are more portable across systems. PENQUIN encourages the construction of reactive modules which are clearer than modules that use polling or a mixed approach. (KR)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA228580
Entities
People
- Sue-ken Yap
Organizations
- University of Rochester