A Generic Language and Tool for Variability Modeling

This paper presents an approach to variability modeling where variability models are made in a separate, generic language CVL (Common Variability Language) that works with any other language defined by a metamodel. CVL models specify both variabilities and resolutions of these, and by executing a CVL model the base product line model is transformed into a specific product model. Our CVL tool is a generic tool in the sense that the supported transformations work on any model in any language defined by a metamodel. We show how the well known notation for variability, feature diagrams, can be subsumed under CVL as its (partial) concrete syntax. We also demonstrate the use of a simple, but powerful means for parameterization. Furthermore we give a worked-out example from the real domain of train signaling. Oppdragsgiver: Research Project MoSi