Formalizing model transformation patterns

• Published in: Journal of software : evolution and process 2022-02, Vol.34 (2), p.n/a
• Main Authors: Rouhi, Alireza, Kolahdouz Rahimi, Shekoufeh, Lano, Kevin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: design pattern; formal model; Formalism; Metamodels; model transformation; model‐driven development (MDD); Specifications; Transformations
• ISSN: 2047-7473; 2047-7481
• DOI: 10.1002/smr.2406

Model transformation has become an established field, and it is important to improve the quality of specifications written in transformation languages. Different transformation patterns have been introduced in the model‐driven engineering (MDE) community to improve the quality of transformation specifications. However, due to the different definitions of pattern concepts by different authors, it is difficult for practitioners to understand how to apply patterns in practice. Therefore, there is a need to unify transformation pattern concepts by presenting a generic metamodel and formalizing patterns in terms of this metamodel, to define the meaning of pattern application. In this research a general metamodel for definition of different design patterns in model transformation is provided. The metamodel presents clear description of common aspects of transformation patterns, which facilitates the application of patterns on model transformations by validating the application against the underlying formalism. Additionally, a unified and precise terminology for the application and verification of model transformation patterns by using a formal model of model transformation patterns in the Z notation is presented. To show the applicability of the proposed formalism, four well‐known model transformation patterns are specified. In this paper a general metamodel for definition of different design patterns in model transformation is provided. The metamodel presents clear description of common aspects of transformation patterns, which facilitates the application of patterns on model transformations by validating the application against the underlying formalism. Additionally, a unified and precise terminology for the application and verification of model transformation patterns by using a formal model of model transformation patterns in the Z notation is presented.