Validated Visual Modeling of Multilayers in DMLA

Abstract

Over the past decade, a number of approaches have been published in the literature, which try to elaborate and clarify the principles of multi-level metamodeling. In this field, however, there are still no widely accepted principles, every approach supports different features. In this paper, we present the basic concepts of a rudimentary prototype which was developed for the purpose of supporting the process of multi-level metamodeling within Dynamic Multi-Layer Algebra (DMLA). We introduce some visualization patterns that can be wellmatched to the abstraction levels appearing in the specification, therefore the advantages of multi-level metamodeling can be exploited. The patterns can make it more comfortable and seamless to edit the models. We also summarize the main concerns regarding the validation issues and the visualization of DMLA.