Evaluation across multiple views for variable automation systems

Abstract

Automation systems in industry are often software-intensive systems consisting of software and hardware components. During their development several engineers of different disciplines are involved, such as mechanical, electrical and software engineering. Each engineer focuses on specific system aspects to be developed. To enable an efficient development, product lines especially with feature models for variability modeling are promising technologies. In order to reduce the complexity of both feature models and development process, views on feature models can be applied. The use of views for filtering purposes constitutes an established method. However, views also enable further options missing in current approaches, such as evaluations regarding requirements, including non-functional ones. This paper presents an approach for evaluation across multiple views to enable collaborative development for developers who focus on different system aspects. We validate our approach by applying it in an industrial project for the planning of flying saws.