Division A
Roll Number 77
PRN Number 12320137
Name Shivani Kshirsagar
Experiment 3
Problem Statement : Model-Driven Development (MDD) and Model-Driven
Architecture (MDA)
1. Introduction
Model-Driven Development (MDD) and Model-Driven Architecture (MDA) are software
engineering approaches that emphasize models as the primary artifacts in the development
process. These methodologies promote automation, efficiency, and portability by enabling
systematic transformations between different abstraction levels. This report explores MDD,
MDA, and the critical role of model transformation.
2. Model-Driven Development (MDD)
MDD is an approach where software models play a central role in the software development
lifecycle. Instead of focusing solely on code, MDD encourages the use of models to define
system functionality, structure, and behavior.
2.1 Key Characteristics of MDD
● Abstraction: Focuses on high-level system models instead of low-level implementation
details.
● Automation: Uses tools to generate code, reducing manual development effort.
● Portability: Supports easy adaptation to different platforms.
● Consistency: Ensures uniformity in development processes.
2.2 Benefits of MDD
● Increased Productivity: Automating repetitive coding tasks speeds up development.
● Better Maintainability: Higher abstraction models make it easier to modify and extend
software.
● Platform Independence: Models are not tied to specific technologies, allowing easier
migration.
3. Model-Driven Architecture (MDA)
MDA, introduced by the Object Management Group (OMG), is a specific implementation of
MDD that defines software development using three distinct model levels:
3.1 Computational Independent Model (CIM)
● Represents the business logic and system requirements without technological details.
● Example: Business process diagrams, requirement specifications.
3.2 Platform Independent Model (PIM)
● Defines system functionality abstractly, independent of the implementation platform.
● Example: UML diagrams (Use Case, Class, Sequence diagrams).
3.3 Platform Specific Model (PSM)
● Converts PIM into platform-dependent implementations.
● Example: Source code for a specific platform (React, OpenCV, NASA POWER API).
4. Model Transformation
Model transformation refers to the process of converting one model into another while
preserving its meaning and functionality. It is a critical step in MDD and MDA.
4.1 Importance of Model Transformation
● Automates Code Generation: Reduces manual coding efforts by transforming
high-level models into executable code.
● Ensures Consistency: Maintains uniformity across different stages of development.
● Enhances Portability: Enables smooth transitions between platforms.
4.2 Types of Model Transformations
1. Horizontal Transformation – Converts models at the same abstraction level (e.g.,
refining a CIM).
2. Vertical Transformation – Converts higher abstraction models to lower abstraction ones
(e.g., PIM to PSM).
3. Exogenous Transformation – Converts models between different modeling languages.
4. Endogenous Transformation – Converts models within the same modeling language.
5. Real-World Example: BrightBox – Solar Energy Estimation Portal
5.1 Application of MDA in BrightBox
1. CIM (Computational Independent Model): Defines the problem statement and
requirements, such as estimating solar energy potential based on rooftop selection.
2. PIM (Platform Independent Model): Uses UML diagrams to model system logic,
including user interactions and data flow.
3. PSM (Platform Specific Model): Implements the system using React (Frontend UI),
OpenCV (Image Processing), and NASA POWER API (Solar Radiation Data).
5.2 Model Transformation in BrightBox
● CIM → PIM: Converts business logic into a structured system model.
● PIM → PSM: Uses tools to generate React-based UI components and API integrations
from PIM.
6. Diagram: Model-Driven Architecture in BrightBox
7. Tools for MDD & MDA
● Eclipse EMF (Eclipse Modeling Framework): Supports MDD-based development.
● ATL (Atlas Transformation Language): Facilitates model transformation.
● Papyrus: UML-based MDA tool for designing PIMs and converting them into PSMs.
8. Conclusion
MDD and MDA offer structured, model-centric approaches to software development, ensuring
efficiency, automation, and consistency. Model transformation plays a crucial role in
transitioning from conceptual models to practical implementations, as demonstrated in the
BrightBox project. By leveraging tools and methodologies like UML, OpenCV, and API
integrations, software developers can build scalable, adaptable, and maintainable systems
efficiently.
