Attributed graphs, graph-grammars, and structured modeling

Structured Modeling, proposed by Geoffrion, aspires to provide a rich, computer-based modeling environment. Structured Modeling relies on a particular type of attributed graph to represent models. Jones has proposed the use of a graph-based modeling system (GBMS) based on graph-grammars to facilitate the creation of modeling environments for attributed graphs. Since Structured Modeling can be viewed as a type of attributed graph, and graph-grammars support attributed graphs, this paper explores how graph-grammars can support Structured Modeling. As will be seen, graph-grammars have the potential to provide a graphical, syntax-directed editing environment for Structured Modeling. A prototype implementation, Networks/SM, based on Jones’s prototype GBMS, Networks, is also discussed.