What is the Python counterpart to an Ada record / C++ struct type?

Question

Suppose I am recording data and want to associate some number of data elements, such that each recorded set always has a fixed composition, ie no missing fields.

Most of my experience as a programmer is with Ada or C/C++ variants. In Ada, I would use a record type and aggregate assignment, so that when the record type was updated with new fields, anyone using the record would be notified by the compiler. In C++, chances are I would use a storage class and constructor to do something similar.

What is the appropriate way to handle a similar situation in Python? Is this a case where classes are the proper answer, or is there a lighter weight analog to the Ada record?

An additional thought, both Ada records and C++ constructors allow for default initialization values. Is there a Python solution to the above question which provides that capability as well?

Answer 1

A namedtuple (from the collections library) may suit your purposes. It is basically a tuple which allows reference to fields by name as well as index position. So it's a fixed structure of ordered named fields. It's also lightweight in that it uses slots to define field names thus eliminating the need to carry a dictionary in every instance.

A typical use case is to define a point:

from collections import namedtuple
Point = namedtuple("Point", "x y")
p1 = Point(x=11, y=22)

It's main drawback is that, being a tuple, it is immutable. But there is a method, replace which allows you to replace one or more fields with new values, but a new instance is created in the process.

There is also a mutable version of namedtuple available at ActiveState Python Recipes 576555 called records which permits direct field changes. I've used it and can vouch that it works well.

Answer 2

A dictionary is the classical way to do this in Python. It can't enforce that a value must exist though, and doesn't do initial values.

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collections.namedtuple() is another option in versions of Python that support it.