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Abstract

Using Unicode Normalization and Character Properties in Java

Addison Phillips - webMethods, Inc.

Intended Audience: Software Engineers, Systems Analysts
Session Level: Beginner

Statement of Purpose:

This presentation demonstrates how Unicode normalization forms can be used (and abused) in a real software product. The advantages and pitfalls of each normalization form will be examined.

Audience:

This presentation is geared towards developers and system designers with limited internationalization experience.

The Unicode Character Database provides important and useful information about each character in the Universal Character Set. Indeed, this is one of the most compelling aspects of the Unicode standard: the compilation and maintenance of character properties beyond a mere code point helps developers implement general solutions to natural language processing and text handling problems that would otherwise be quite challenging.

One aspect of Unicode that is both powerful and perilous is the use of Unicode Normalization Forms. This presentation will demonstrate:

  1. What each of the four forms is.
  2. What each form is useful for.
  3. Why the "K" forms are *not* suitable for global application.
  4. How to use each form to improve product performance and usability.

We'll demonstrate how a webMethods product (webMethods Integrator) used each of these to improve input handling, collation performance, and pattern matching. Small Java demo programs (and source code) will be included in the session for each feature as well, including:

-- a numeric input field that uses Form KC to make input validation easier.
-- how forms D and KD affect a Collator's performance
-- how form C improves pattern matching and collision detection

As an added bonus, we'll document a "secret" feature of Java IME support that will allow your programs to perform character-by-character input handling.


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30 September 2001, Webmaster