SysML stereotype mapping and synchronization between Blocks and Parts
eaUtils SysML stereotype mapping and synchronization on SysML parts according to their blocks is relevant when using SysML stereotypes defined in a custom MDG technology.
It is common practice to define and use specific stereotypes on SysML blocks e.g. to differentiate hardware from software blocks. The stereotype mechanism can also be used to assign default colours or add specific properties (tagged values).
The diagram below illustrates the Hardware and Software SysML blocks and parts used in this example.
When using parts within an ibd (SysML internal block diagram), they aren't stereotyped. Assigning the right stereotype can be time consuming; eaUtils SysML Synchronize parts stereotypes is intended to deal with this issue.
Initial context
The SysML block definition diagram (bdd) below illustrates the definition of a main system with its hardware and software subsystems.
When creating a composition between SysML blocks, Enterprise Architect automatically creates parts under the main block as illustrated in the Project Browser:
When creating an internal block diagram (ibd), the parts can be added via EA Synchronize Structural Elements diagram function.
Result:
At this stage and without eaUtils, one must manually set each part's stereotype according to the main block, e.g. "hw part" for "hw1", "sw part" for "sw".
Define the mapping rules
The mapping rules from SysML block to SysML part stereotypes must be defined in a dedicated diagram, identified with its stereotype, "eautils_sysml".
- Create a package and diagram in your EA project.
- Open the diagram properties (F5) and set the stereotype: eautils_sysml
- Use your MDG toolbox to create each stereotyped blocks and part and create a dependency link from a stereotyped block to its matching stereotyped part, e.g. "hw block" to "hw part".
- Save and close the diagram; the mapping definitions are ready and available for eaUtils.
Synchronize, update SysML parts stereotype
- Open the SysML internal block diagram to update.
- Right click and select Specialize > eaUtils > [SysML] ibd | Synchronize parts stereotypes.
- The popup window is displayed with the list of mapping rules found:
- Result:
Note: if no mapping rule is found, the following error message is displayed:
Demonstration video
Click on the image below to open the Youtube video illustrating this feature.
