Object-Oriented Implementation of Numerical Methods: An Introduction with Java & Smalltalk

by Didier H. Besset

Numerical methods naturally lend themselves to an object-oriented approach. Mathematics builds high- level ideas on top of previously described, simpler ones. Once a property is demonstrated for a given concept, it can be applied to any new concept sharing the same premise as the original one, similar to the ideas of reuse and inheritance in object-oriented (OO) methodology. Few books on numerical methods teach developers much about designing and building good code. Good computing routines are problem-specific. Insight and understanding are what is needed, rather than just recipes and black box routines. Developers need the ability to construct new programs for different applications. Object-Oriented Implementation of Numerical Methods reveals a complete OO design methodology in a clear and systematic way. Each method is presented in a consistent format, beginning with a short explanation and following with a description of the general OO architecture for the algorithm. Next, the code implementations are discussed and presented along with real-world examples that the author, an experienced software engineer, has used in a variety of commercial applications. * Reveals the design methodology behind the code, including design patterns where appropriate, rather than just presenting canned solutions.
* Implements all methods side by side in both Java and Smalltalk. This contrast can significantly enhance your understanding of the nature of OO programming languages.
* Provides a step-by-step pathway to new object-oriented techniques for programmers familiar with using procedural languages such as C or Fortran for numerical methods.
* Includes a chapter on data mining, a key application of numerical methods.

766 pages, Hardcover

First published October 25, 2000