A Meta-model Transformation from UML Activity Diagrams to Event-B Models

Abstract

The lack of a precise semantics for UML AD makes the reasoning on models workflow constructed using such diagrams infeasible. However, such diagrams are widely used in domains that require a certain degree of confidence. To enhance confidence level of UML AD, we provide a formal definition of their syntax and semantics in Event B. The main interest of our approach is that we chose UML AD, which are recognized to be more tractable by engineers. We outline the translation of UML AD into Event B in order to verify functional properties of workflow models (such as deadlock-inexistence, liveness, fairness) automatically, using the B powerful support tools like RODIN. We propose a meta-model based transformation from UML activity diagrams to Event B Models. To ensure the correctness and the completion of the transformation, we propose a graph homomorphic mapping between the activity diagram and Event B models elements.