Analyzing Apache Storm as Core for an Event Processing Network Model

In this article, we apply a proposal for a list of generalized requirements for a unified modeling of event processing networks (EPNs) to Apache Storm. It enhances our previous work in this area, in which we analyzed the EPiA model, the BEMN model, and the RuleCore model. Our proposed requirements look at both: The logical model of EPNs and the concrete technical implementation of them. To facilitate this, it is required to define a model, which enables to describe the ‘form’ of events on a conceptual level, the steps of event processing and creation by means of a defined event hierarchy and moreover: The form of inter-event relationships, such as temporal and causal relations. Furthermore, the model needs to interrelate these model-specific traits with the technical side of EPNs, like platform implementation and design specifics. For this purpose, our paper elaborates general requirements for EPN models based on the attributes derived from event processing in general as well as existing models. Finally, as its core contribution, the paper applies those requirements, by analyzing Apache Storm as a particular implementation foundation of an EPN model.