Simulating Domain Specific Visual Models by Observation

Domain Specific Visual Languages (DSVLs) are essential elements in Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) for representing models and metamodels. In-place model transformations provide an intuitive way to complement metamodels with behavioral specifications. Besides, they can be extended with quantitative models of time and with mechanisms that facilitate the design of real-time complex systems. In this paper we present an approach to simulate and analyze the behavior of systems described by DSVLs using observers, which are objects that can monitor both the state of the rest of the objects of the system, and the execution of the system actions. Our proposal is supported by e-Motions, a graphical framework and tool for defining timed behavioral specifications of models. We also show how this approach enables the specification and simulation of other important features of systems, such as the automatic reconfiguration of the system when the value of some of the observed properties change.