Managing Abstract MetaClasses
Creating an abstract MetaClass
To create an abstract MetaClass:
1. Create a new MetaClass (for more details, see Adding a MetaClass to a Metamodel Diagram)
2. Right-click the MetaClass and open its Properties.
3. Select the Characteristics tab and select the Standard subtab.
4. In the MetaClass Layer field, select Abstract.
Note that the MetaClass changes color in the metamodel diagram and that its icon appears transparent in the navigation tree.
You must not change an existing concrete MetaClass into an abstract MetaClass. Occurrences of this MetaClass will no longer be accessible. See Abstract Metamodel Extension Recommendations.Inheritance relationships
HOPEX inheritance is hierarchical and multiple:
• Hierarchical, since each MetaClass hierarchically inherits all characteristics of the abstract MetaClass from which it inherits.
Inheritances of several levels are not recommended.• Multiple, since a MetaClass can inherit several MetaClasses.
A MetaClass of the "System" repository cannot inherit an abstract MetaClass of the "Data" repository.The list of MetaClasses from which a MetaClass inherits is accessible from the Properties window of the MetaClass, in the Characteristics tab, Standard subtab. The SuperMetaClass field allows you to view and update this list.
To view with the explorer the list of MetaClasses from which a MetaClass inherits (for example: "Element with Note"):
1. Right-click the MetaClass and select Explore.
An explorer window opens.
2. Expand the "SuperMetaClass" folder.
Similarly, by expanding the "SubMetaClass" folder, you obtain the list of all MetaClasses that inherit the current MetaClass.