I used Image procedure recently; there are at least two similar procedures in IPL, ximage and fullimage, beside built-in image. Furthermore, I can imagine few new procedures with similar functionality. Lack of the naming system in IPL is (1) minor aesthetical problem, but also (2) possible name collisions require checking, in users programs, and if potential new additions to the library. Finally (3) contributors to IPL naturally tend to take most attractive names, making less space for users and other contributions.
Problem originates from illusion that one procedure can be solution for all times, hence most attractive name can be safely taken. It is better to suppose that newer (not necessarily better, just different) versions will be written indefinitely. That problem can be solved only by naming conventions (same problem exist for class/object/module names.) Inspired by human reference systems (there is no only one book named "physics" trademarked by Aristotle) I propose similar naming convention. For example, instead of mentioned Image, ximage, fullimage, even_fuller_image it could be used: RG95_image BP98_image KW99_image Prefix is initial of author and year; or something like that; Those names are more complicated (if one uses particular function a lot, he can always $define image for himself) but drawbacks are outweighed by benefits: (1) there is a system, (2) name collisions are impossible (3) attractive names (without prefix) are left for users; (4) it is easier to combine procedures from different files (one might want WP78_linear_fit, but prefer MM88_exponential_fit over WP78_exponential_fit); Furthermore, (5) extension are encouraged because there is no backward compatibility or name collisions issues, so even very small variations can easily find their place. Kazimir Majorinc, Zagreb, Croatia ------------------------------------------------------- This SF.Net email sponsored by: ApacheCon 2003, 16-19 November in Las Vegas. Learn firsthand the latest developments in Apache, PHP, Perl, XML, Java, MySQL, WebDAV, and more! http://www.apachecon.com/ _______________________________________________ Unicon-group mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/unicon-group
