One Compiler to Rule Them All : Extending the Storm Programming Language Platform with a Java Frontend

Abstract: The thesis aims to develop a method for extending the language platform Storm with a Java frontend.The project was conducted using an Action Research methodology and highlights triumphs andchallenges. Despite the significant overhead related to note generation and problem statementformulation, this methodology proved beneficial in identifying problems and providing the framework tosolve them. The first research question (RQ.1) evaluates to what extent the language platform Storm is suitable forimplementing the object oriented language Java. Using Storm, only a BNF and a specification for three-address code instructions are needed. Despite encountering difficulties during the implementation, theplatform offers tools that allow comprehensive customization of the new language's intended behaviorand functionality. The second research question (RQ.2) explores a suitable method for implementing a new language inStorm. It is suggested to first implement a foundational structure comprising of statements, blocks,scope handling and variable declarations. From this foundation, new functionalities can be graduallyintroduced and tested by connecting them to the appropriate location in the structure. When allfunctionality is added and tested a refactoring step can take place to modify the BNF if needed.