In UML modeling, a realization relationship is a relationship between
two model elements, in which one model element (the client) realizes the behavior
that the other model element (the supplier) specifies. Several clients can
realize the behavior of a single supplier. You can use realization relationships
in class diagrams and component diagrams.
Typically, realization relationships do not have names. If you name a realization,
the name is displayed beside to the realization connector in the diagram.
As the following figure illustrates, a realization is displayed in the
diagram editor as a dashed line with an unfilled arrowhead that points from
the client (realizes the behavior) to the supplier (specifies the behavior).
You can model the following situations using realization relationships:
- A component is realized by a set of classifiers that provide its implementation.
- A collaboration instance contains the objects and messages that are needed
to implement the behaviors that a use case specifies.