objectcases

Objectcases is a theoretical framework in knowledge representation and software modeling that describes how objects can exist in multiple contextual modes. Each mode, or case, encodes a distinct set of properties, behaviors, and constraints appropriate to a particular context, such as location, role, or state. The concept aims to separate context-specific aspects of an object from its core identity, enabling more modular and adaptable models.

Structure: An object is associated with one or more objectcases. A case consists of a label, a collection of attribute values, a set of permissible operations, and rules that govern transitions to other cases. Transitions are triggered by events, predicates, or rules, allowing objects to adapt their behavior without changing their underlying class or type.

Examples: In interactive simulations, a vehicle object may switch between cases such as idle, moving, refueling, and damaged, with each case specifying different speed, control schemas, and allowed interactions. In document workflows, a document object may be in draft, review, or approved cases, controlling editing rights and visibility.

Relation and scope: Objectcases intersect with concepts such as state machines, contexts in context-aware computing, and multi-mode objects in object-oriented design. They emphasize explicit context management to improve reasoning about behavior. Critics point to potential complexity and the need for consistent semantics, while supporters cite improved modularity and clarity in context-driven systems.

History: The term arose in early discussions of context-sensitive modeling and gained occasional use in specialized literature and tooling for semantic modeling and simulations. Adoption remains limited outside niche domains.

See also: Context-aware computing, state machine, knowledge representation, object-oriented design.