Using Graph-Rewriting for Model Weaving in the context of Aspect-Oriented Product Line Engineering

In this paper we present the concept of combining feature models and solution models through aspect-oriented graph rewriting systems (AO-GRS) in the context of product-line engineering (PLE). Variable parts of software systems are often modelled by feature models in PLE. In Model Driven Development a feature is represented by means of model elements in a solution model, e.g. classes, methods or attributes in the context of UML models. The inclusion of a feature in the resulting software system may change the solution model of the product on multiple points and thereby crosscut the solution model. We use GRS-based model weaving to include specific features in a solution model based on the presence or absence of the feature in the variant model. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach in a case study, which uses story diagrams as GRS.