Product Model Derivation from Feature Model and Formal Specification

Abstract

Product derivation is the process of building a specific product from a software product line. Effective product derivation can improve software reuse productivity. Existing methods can only obtain abstract feature models, lacking detailed specifications of individual features. They are more about deriving code assets or class diagram templates without precise model descriptions for specific products. This article proposes a product derivation approach to obtain a formal specification of a specific product based on the feature model and formal specification. We use the integration ordering and behavior preserving integration techniques to integrate the formal specification for each feature pair. The method is divided into two steps. First, it determines the feature formal specification integration ordering based on the feature model. Then, the behavior-preserving integration will be conducted for pairs, including declaration integration, functional scenario path generation, and function integration based on path matching. Behavior preserving integration guarantees consistent behavior to ensure the quality of the formal specification after integration. Finally, we developed a support tool to conduct a case study. The tool first guides the user to perform feature functional scenario path matching, then performs functional integration based on the matching results and repeats the above steps to generate a product model. The result indicates that our method facilitates the derivation process and improves the quality of the generated models.

Reviewing Automated Analysis of Feature Model Solutions for the Product Configuration

“…We can tailor or adapt variability intensive systems (VIS) to particular needs in different domains [2,3]. As Wang et al [4] highlights, variability has become a key in software systems for the steadily increasing demand for highly customizable products. In software product line engineering (SPLE), variability models such as FMs are primary artifacts for the SPLs' success [5].…”