A Model-Driven Architecture Solution for Multi-Platform Mobile App Development

This paper proposes an automatic code generation approach for multi-platform mobile apps based on the Model Driven Architecture (MDA) methodology.A UML-based metamodel encompassing common mobile application constructs like views, controls, resources, and events is presented.The Platform Independent Model (PIM) conforming to this metamodel can be transformed into platform-specific source code using the Acceleo code generator.The approach aims to reduce cost and effort compared to native development for each platform since it allows to develop once and deploy in each platform.A case study demonstrates Android user interface generation from a sample PIM model.Further enhancements like supporting more target platforms, integration of sensors and advanced UI elements have been identified.