Modelling Language Implementation on ADOxx

In this section we focus on the implementation of the model structure/modelling language in ADOxx. As a starting point the specification and definition of a modelling method, as defined in [Karagiannis2002], is used to set the modelling language in context with the modelling procedure, mechanisms and algorithms, resulting in a modelling method. In the following subsections we focus on the modelling technique, more precisely on the modelling language consisting of:

1. Notation: the representation of a modelling construct (e.g. graphical)
2. Syntax: the specification of a modelling construct
3. Semantic: the definition of the meaning for a modelling construct

A modelling construct can be a (concrete) class, relation class, modeltype or attribute.

Generic Modelling Method Framework

Peforming a further drill-down into the modelling language, the following concepts are of interest from an implementation perspective:

1. Classes and Relations: as the base modelling constructs for every modelling toolkit
2. Attributes on Instance and Class Level: to provide means to specify instance objects or define classes accordingly. 
3. Special Attributes on Instance and Class Level: to enable ADOxx specific functionality, such as attribute-dependent graphical notation.
4. Attribute facets: configuration of attribute appearance and behaviour
5. Modeltypes and model type attributes: similiar as for classes and relations on the model type level.

 

Meta Model of Meta Modelling Language

References

Karagiannis, D., Kühn, H.: „Metamodelling Platforms". In Bauknecht, K., Min Tjoa, A., Quirchmayer, G. (Eds.): Proceedings of the Third International Conference EC-Web 2002 – Dexa 2002, Aix-en-Provence, France, September 2002, LNCS 2455, Springer, Berlin/Heidelberg, p. 182 ff.
Available online at http://www.dke.univie.ac.at/mmp/FullVersion_MMP_DexaECWeb2002.pdf

Kühn, H. (2004). Methodenintegration im Business Engineering. PhD Thesis, University of Vienna