The Model Transformation Framework (MTF) is a set of tools that helps developers make comparisons, check consistency, and implement transformations between Eclipse Modeling Framework (EMF) models. The framework also supports persistence of a record of what was mapped to what by the transformation; this record can be used to support round-tripping, reconciliation of changes, or display of the results to a user.

How does it work?

The framework consists of the following:

• a language for defining mappings between EMF models
• a transformation engine capable of interpreting mapping definitions in order to check or enforce consistency between models
• editor and debugger for mapping definitions
• support for generating text documents from EMF models using templates.

Supplied samples include the following:

• generation of Unified Modeling Language (UML) 2.0 models from Java™ source code
• generation of HTML documentation from Ecore models
• bi-directional transformation from UML 2.0 to XSD and back again
• use of MTF with IBM Rational Software Modeler extensibility features.

Catherine Griffin is a software developer at IBM Hursley, U.K. She is currently a member of the Master Data Management product development team.