Multi-Way Semantic Specification of Domain-Specific Modeling Languages

Increased emphasis on the use of model-based design methods, particularly for developing Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), has created challenges in the area of developing domain-specific modeling languages (DSML). To meet the increased demand for DSMLs, rapid development tools and techniques are needed. While tools such as the Generic Modeling Environment (GME) for the specification of the syntactic structure of DSMLs are well established, proper techniques for the specification of semantics and methods for integrating the semantic specifications with the language design tool suite remain interesting challenges. Current efforts in semantic specification of DSMLs focus solely on operational semantics. In this paper we show how the specification of multiple types of semantics can bring added benefit. We also emphasize the use of FORMULA, a formal modeling and analysis language, and show how it can be used to specify the semantics of a DSML in a way that integrates with DSML development tools. As a case study, we consider the operational and denotational semantics of a Statecharts-like language and show that the two semantic specifications can be used for complementary applications.