Abstract: A client or Web application assembly or group of assemblies is bound to a version of shared assemblies associated with a particular targeted execution environment. The targeted execution environment (and thus the version of shared assemblies associated with it) may be selected or detected. A file such as a configuration file is automatically modified. The selected or detected execution environment may be the same as or different than the local version. The client or Web assembly is automatically bound to the targeted shared assemblies. A user interface enables the selection of a particular execution environment. Alternatively, a user interface informs of the detected targeted execution environment and enables the reconfiguration of the Web assembly. This invention provides a mechanism and process for maintaining legacy software after a new software development tool is installed, without deploying a new version of shared assemblies.

Abstract: A blueprint is described that provides a framework for writing a code generator. A blueprint translator translates the blueprint into one or more classes with source code. The newly generated code can then be compiled. If the user wishes to add additional functionality to a generated class, this is done in a separate source file. At compilation time, the compiler combines the generated class with the user's additions, as if they were written in a single class. Later, if the blueprint is ever changed, the generated code can safely be updated without overwriting the user's additions. Alternately, the user can embed his desired additions or changes directly into the blueprint (embedded code). In this manner, should the blueprint ever be re-compiled, the user's changes will still be present. The partial classes technique can be used in conjunction with the embedded code technique.

Abstract: A delegate-based event-driven programming model facilitates application development by allowing event handlers to be manipulated on an individual basis. In the delegate-based event-driven programming model, the recipient of an event need not be aware that is receiving the event because the event is treated as a call from a method. In addition, event handlers can be dynamically manipulated, such that recipients of events can be added or removed during runtime. Flexibility of event handling is improved as a result.

Abstract: A client or Web application assembly or group of assemblies is bound to a version of shared assemblies associated with a particular targeted execution environment. The targeted execution environment (and thus the version of shared assemblies associated with it) may be selected or detected. A file such as a configuration file is automatically modified. The selected or detected execution environment may be the same as or different than the local version. The client or Web assembly is automatically bound to the targeted shared assemblies. A user interface enables the selection of a particular execution environment. Alternatively, a user interface informs of the detected targeted execution environment and enables the reconfiguration of the Web assembly. This invention provides a mechanism and process for maintaining legacy software after a new software development tool is installed, without deploying a new version of shared assemblies.

Abstract: A blueprint is described that provides a framework for writing a code generator. A blueprint translator translates the blueprint into one or more classes with source code. The newly generated code can then be compiled. If the user wishes to add additional functionality to a generated class, this is done in a separate source file. At compilation time, the compiler combines the generated class with the user's additions, as if they were written in a single class. Later, if the blueprint is ever changed, the generated code can safely be updated without overwriting the user's additions. Alternately, the user can embed his desired additions or changes directly into the blueprint (embedded code). In this manner, should the blueprint ever be re-compiled, the user's changes will still be present. The partial classes technique can be used in conjunction with the embedded code technique.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for encapsulating a reference to a method in object-based programming systems and ensuring that the reference is safe are disclosed. The method of encapsulation provides for: a) defining an entity that defines the shape of the method to be referenced; b) obtaining a reference to a method; c) storing this reference in arbitrary data structures; d) passing the reference to code written by other parties; e) enabling invocation of the method by anyone holding the method reference; and f) enabling the holder of a method reference to determine the target object and method being referenced. These objectives are achieved in a strongly typed manner, making it possible for: a) developers to learn of type mismatch problems early (at compile-time) rather than late (at run-time); and b) development tools to present information to developers about the shape of components that use delegates.