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models and metamodels, and the MOF 4-level metamodeling
framework.
Model transformation appears to be one of the most
useful operations on models. Model transformations are
software artifacts that implement algorithms to transform
models conforming to source metamodels into either
models conforming to target metamodels or source code.
Transformations can use a declarative or an imperative style.
In the latter case,it is important to express the transformation
scheduling.
We have explained how MDE uses model transformations
to achieve the transition of models between several levels of
abstraction by means of vertical transformations. We have
also presented horizontal transformations as the mechanism
to transform models at the same level of abstraction but
integrating several concerns or points of view of an application
domain. Model composition and model weaving are more
advanced operations on models; this is one point where MDE
meets aspect-oriented programming.
MDE technologies are now mature technologies and
tool supports are effective. In particular, the Eclipse
modeling framework, the Topcased toolkit, and the
openArchitectureWare framework are tools enabling
metamodeling and automation of model transformation.
Model transformation languages still exist as QVT and ATL.
We further describe the openArchitectureWare environment
since it is used to support our FieSta approach. Xtend and
Xpand are the model transformation languages provided by
oAW, which also allows aspect-oriented programming in MDE.
MDE appears as a promising technique for SPLE since it
provides uniformity and abstraction for software artifacts and
processes. The ability to build complex transformations is
promising to automate domain and application engineering.
However, there are some challenges. These will be dealt with
in the next chapter.
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