Towards a more complete object-orientation in graph-based design languages

Abstract

In this paper an extension of the design method graph-based design languages is proposed. This is realized by adding object-oriented class methods and interface mechanisms to the design method. Additionally, graphical mechanisms for modeling and calling the methods are proposed. This allows object-oriented design patterns to be transferred to the product design, where they improve the handling of complexity in the product engineering. As result, the proposed extension enables modularization and reuse of engineering knowledge, the integration of engineering domains is enhanced and multi-stakeholder collaboration with security access control (information security) becomes feasible.

Graph transformation in engineering design: an overview of the last decade

“…The documentation of the vocabulary can be carried out using a formally defined notation. For the appliaction of graph transformation for engineering design, the PROGRES graph schema as well as the UML class diagram are already in use (Zhang and Jiao, 2013; Vogel and Arnold, 2020). In the field of computer science, the UML class diagram has been used for this purpose (Hermann et al , 2008; Cabot et al , 2009).…”

“…The PROGRES graph schema has been used to define the metamodel for production process planning (Zhang and Jiao, 2013). Another approach is the use of the UML class diagram (Gross and Rudolph, 2016 a , 2016 b , 2016 c ; Schmidt and Rudolph, 2016; Holder et al , 2017; Vogel and Arnold, 2020). Where the UML class diagram has been used, excerpts of the class diagram (Gross and Rudolph, 2016 a , 2016 b , 2016 c ) or a simplified version of the class diagram are presented (Schmidt and Rudolph, 2016; Holder et al , 2017).…”

“…In graph-based design languages, either graphical rules or rules written in JAVA are used (Vogel and Arnold, 2020). The graphical rules consist of a LHS and a RHS, can be modeled using a graphical notation based on the UML object diagram, and allow to call methods (Vogel and Arnold, 2020).…”

“…Graph-based design languages use rules that are presented in a predefined order. The transformation of the graph is either described by graphical rules consisting of a LHS and a RHS or procedural JAVA code (Vogel and Arnold, 2020). Several design languages can be arranged in a hierarchy to model a system as a combination of subsystems, as shown with the example of satellite design (Gross and Rudolph, 2016 b ).…”

“…If graph transformation is used for engineering design, the vocabulary and the associated rules contain a significant amount of company knowledge (Eichhoff and Roller, 2016). One resulting challenge is how this knowledge can be protected from clients or competitors in collaborative design environments (Eichhoff and Roller, 2016; Vogel and Arnold, 2020).…”