EATXT: A textual concrete syntax for EAST-ADL

TL;DR

EATXT is a new textual concrete syntax for EAST-ADL that enhances automotive architecture modeling by providing an open-source, industry-grade editor with advanced features supporting blended modeling approaches.

Contribution

The paper introduces EATXT, a novel textual syntax for EAST-ADL, including its implementation, features, and industry collaboration, advancing open-source modeling tools.

Findings

EATXT editor supports advanced content-assist and serialization features.

The editor is based on Xtext and is publicly available.

EATXT has been used in research to improve automotive architecture modeling.

Abstract

Blended modeling is an approach that enables users to interact with a model via multiple notations. In this context, there is a growing need for open-source industry-grade exemplars of languages with available language engineering artifacts, in particular, editors and notations for supporting the creation of models based on a single metamodel in different representations (e.g., textual, graphical, and tabular ones). These exemplars can support the development of advanced solutions to address the practical challenges posed by blended modeling requirements. As one such exemplar, this paper introduces EATXT, a textual concrete syntax for automotive architecture modeling with EAST-ADL, developed in cooperation with an industry partner in the automotive domain. The EATXT editor is based on Xtext and provides basic and advanced features, such as an improved content-assist and serialization specifically addressing blended modeling requirements. We present the editor features and architecture, the implementation approach, and previous use of EATXT in research. The EATXT editor is publicly available, rendering it a valuable resource for language developers.