Type vs Subtype

[minna]

Hi,

We are using UPDM 2.0 and have created an OV-2 diagram with Nodes, NodeRoles and Needlines. NodeA (parent of NodeB) contains NodeB (parent of NodeRoleA) which contains NodeRoleA. This NodeRoleA is connected with a Needline to NodeRoleB which is situated in NodeC (parent of NodeRoleB).
 
When running the UPDM model validation, we get a warning that states: MVR800013 - warning (NodeRoleA (NodeRole)): The object does not have a valid type (Permitted values: Node)
 
What is the difference between a Type and a Subtype? Where can we change the Type of NodeRoleA as suggested by this warning?

Thank you,
Minna

[KP]

Where can we change the Type of NodeRoleA as suggested by this warning?

Select NodeRoleA and press Ctrl+L

[minna]

Hi,

Thanks for the reply. What am I changing when I press Ctrl+L? Type or Subtype?

What is the difference between a Type and a Subtype? When looking at the properties of a element, only Subtype is available (is NodeRole in this case), not Type.

The warning mentioned stated that we need to change the Type. Is it the same as Subtype?

Thanks,
Minna

[qwerty]

Thanks for the reply. What am I changing when I press Ctrl+L?

Generally that will change the classifier.

q.

[Uffe]

What is the difference between a Type and a Subtype?

The Type is the main category of element: Class, Activity, Component, etc. The Subtype is a further subcategorization.

If you create a regular activity diagram, and create an Action, EA pops up a menu where you must select the type of Action to create. In this case, the element type is Action and the subtype is Atomic, Call Behavior, etc.

Classifier is a different thing again. It is not a categorization, but a reference to a definition. An Object normally has a Class classifier, Actions have Activity classifiers - the classifier is the reference from the instance element to the defining element.

Oh, and an element's type can be changed in the Element Properties window (not the dialog). You'll find the type displayed there, and an ellipsis button ("...") on the far right, which is normally invisible but it's there. Click that and EA opens the Select Element Type dialog.

HTH,


/Uffe