Supporting the linked data approach to maintain coherence across rich EMF models

Abstract

In many development environments, Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) may well be limited to parts of the complete product development process due to the lack of interoperability mechanisms that connect the product data across the model-based engineering tools being used. This is especially the case if the tools are not designed to work tightly together, and/or if they do not share a common technological basis. In this paper, we investigate the use of the OASIS OSLC interoperability standard to facilitate the integration of models from different languages into a single coherent view. We evaluate a fully-automated code generator that provides OSLC interfaces for EMF-based modelling tools, allowing the exposure of modelling elements from any rich modelling language. We argue that such a generator is a critical component for reducing the cost of providing rich and specialized tool interfaces, generally needed when integrating modelling tools. The study is based on a case study that addresses the development process – and the corresponding integrated software engineering environment - at Volvo Trucks used when developing a new electronic architecture including heavy vehicle functions.