Automated object delegation

Abstract

A Java code directive automatically defines the fields declaring methods in delegation objects such that the compiler generates the corresponding delegation signatures and/or headers. The configurations define a predetermined sequence, or annotation, of compiler interpreted instructions to identify a class as a delegation class from an invoking object, and generate the required signature, or header in the invoking object. The resulting signature satisfies the compiler restriction to implement each method in the delegation class. Particular methods for which a specific implementation is desired may then be superceded or supplemented by specific coded instructions in the invoking object. In this manner, a developer need not manually code the implementation, or signature (so-called 'boilerplate code), for each method in a delegated object (class).