[boost] Just another GSoC project idea: Create a Bjam clone based on the Boost libraries

Subject: [boost] Just another GSoC project idea: Create a Bjam clone based on the Boost libraries
From: Boris Schäling (boris_at_[hidden])
Date: 2014-02-09 14:06:09

Create a Bjam clone based on the Boost libraries

1. Write a parser for the most important rules (exe, lib and so on) based  
on Boost.Spirit
2. Use the parser's actions to create a dependency tree based on  
Boost.Graph
3. Attach Python functions to the nodes in the dependency tree based on  
Boost.Python
4. Implement Python functions for one toolset (like g++)

The project promises a lot of variety as different Boost libraries have to  
be used. It's also an opportunity to get familiar with various Boost  
libraries. As it can be broken down into tasks it shouldn't be that  
difficult to make a realistic plan for a summer project.

If there is anyone interested have a look at  
<https://github.com/boostcon/2011_presentations/raw/master/mon/Boost.Build.pdf>  
and <http://www.highscore.de/cpp/boostbuild/> for more information about  
the build system.

And of course the idea is not to create a fully featured Bjam clone in a  
few months. If there is a binary at the end of the project which can build  
a software based on a simple Jamfile the project is a success. It's more  
important to have all the required components in place even if they are  
far from complete (but once they are in place it shouldn't be too  
difficult to extend them later and add support for another rule for  
example).

Boris