Evaluating Java runtime reflection for implementing cross-language method invocations

Abstract

Cross-language method invocations are commonly used for integrating objects residing in different programming language environments. In this experience report, we evaluate the performance and the design impact of alternative implementations of cross-language method invocations for the object-oriented scripting language Frag, implemented and embedded in Java. In particular, we compare reflective integration and generative integration techniques. For that, we present a performance evaluation based on a large set of test cases. In addition, we propose a new method for quantifying and comparing the implementation efforts needed for cross-language method invocations based on cross-language refactorings. We report on the lessons learnt and discuss the consequences of the implementation variants under review.