Structural Modeling of Design Patterns: REP Diagrams

Software modelling languages should possess a notation, semantics and treatment adapted to design patterns, but its correct specification is a challenge for many investigators. UML treats them as parameterised collaborations, however, this approach is not exempt of problems. The goal of this work is the elaboration of a simple and intuitive model for the structural specification of design patterns and its integration in UML. The patterns specified with this model expect to be true reusable templates that can be applied in different contexts. For that, we use a visual, complete, simple and easy to learn notation. We believe that this model could be used successfully for the construction of a future tool that facilitates the definition, application, visualization and validation of patterns.