Thorsten Krebs

Using a structure-based configuration tool for product derivation

Because of the possibly large variability in families of software systems and the complex dependencies between individual software components, product derivation in the context of software-intensive systems is not a trivial task. In this demonstration, we show the domain-independent structure-based configuration tool KONWERK, extended with a knowledge base containing a configuration model representing the domain of car periphery supervision systems. Using this tool, reasoning methods known from structure-based configuration are applied in the area of software-intensive systems. Starting with i) a model describing the variability of already realized software components and ii) a concrete task specification for a specific product, during a knowledge-based product derivation process a description of the needed software components is derived. This description is to be used for realizing, i.e. compiling and linking the desired product. The applicability and usefulness of such an approach will be shown in the demonstration.

Model-Based Configuration Support For Software Product Families

In this paper, we present main aspects of the ConIPF methodology which can be used to derive customer-specific software products. The methodology is based on software product families and model-based configuration. First results from using the methodology in an industrial context are presented.

Knowledge Management for Evolving Products

Modern product manufacturers face the problem of managing a variety of roducts that change over time. A product catalog is constantly subject to change due to increasing technical capabilities and customer demands. This paper introduces a novel approach to handle a product catalog using representation facilities of structure-based configuration. Configurable components from which a product can be assembled are represented in a configuration model and product types are represented in product models. A sophisticated evolution mechanism preserves consistency of the configuration model despite changes and suggests suitable repair operations in case the intended change entails inconsistency. Mismatches between product models and the corresponding configuration model that result from changes are identified and give input for managing the product catalog.