You can create Rational® design patterns that integrate software design solutions into a Unified Modeling Language 2.0 (UML 2.0) models. Design patterns capture frequently used or complex structures and processes and their use eliminates redesign and promotes software consistency.
IBM Rational design patterns
Patterns can solve a singular problem or apply to a specific use case. Patterns can also employ other patterns or systems of patterns in their solutions. The challenge of pattern design is to determine the repeatable structure or process and transform it into a reusable design. Pattern authors can use the IBM® Rational pattern capability to design patterns from the most simple to the very complex.Pattern code and support files
A Java-based pattern framework is provided to facilitate pattern design and implementation. The framework supports a set of mechanisms for default pattern behavior and a set of extensions for specific pattern implementation.Tutorials and samples for authoring patterns
The following tutorials and samples provide an introduction to authoring patterns. See the Tutorials Gallery and Samples Gallery for more tutorials and samples. Pattern cheat sheets are also available from the Help menu.Defining patterns
Defining IBM® Rational design patterns requires some knowledge of Unified Modeling Language (UML) 2.0 elements and object-oriented language concepts. Default Java™ code is provided for the basic pattern model. Pattern libraries, pattern bodies, pattern parameters, and parameter dependencies are expressed as Java™ classes. Mechanisms are provided for documentation and packaging of the pattern, and the potential distribution, archiving, and retrieval of the pattern.Testing patterns
The Eclipse platform provides the pattern author with the ability to invoke a runtime instance of the workbench for testing and debugging patterns. Launching the runtime instance circumvents the requirement to create the pattern plug-in prior to testing the pattern.Publishing patterns
The final step in the pattern design process is to create the pattern plug-in that can be distributed to pattern users. This is accomplished using the RAS asset export utility.
Related concepts
Benefits of using patterns
Patterns and transformations
Related information
Applying patterns