Mapping of UML Diagrams to Extended Petri Nets for Formal Verification

PURPOSE: UML Statechart Diagrams are the industry standard for modeling dynamic aspects of system behavior. However, other behavioral models, such as extended Petri Nets, are significantly easier to analyze formally. This research project creates methods of converting previously unconvertible features of UML Statechart Diagrams to extended Petri Nets to allow for additional analysis of UML Statechart Diagrams. PROCEDURES: Algorithms are introduced that convert specific UML Statechart Diagrams to a novel behavioral construct, Swim Lane Petri Nets, and subsequently to extended Petri Nets as well as direct conversions to extended Petri Nets. Algorithms are also introduced to convert both Swim Lane Petri Nets and extended Petri Nets to the PROcess MEta LAnguage (PROMELA) to allow for detailed formal verification using the SPIN model checker. OUTCOME: Formal definitions of the behavior models, XML representations of these models, and algorithms for conversions between the models are presented with a focus on traceability between translated models to allow for backtracking the results of formal analysis in the SPIN model checker to the original behavioral construct. IMPACT: While UML Statechart Diagrams are the industry standard and provide an intuitive representation of behavior models, formal analysis is limited and difficult. Providing a method of translation to extended Petri Nets, which are more analyzable but less intuitive, adds significant practical value the use of UML Statechart Diagrams in model based development