Verifying UML Diagrams with Model Checking: A Rewriting Logic Based Approach

We present, in this paper, a framework supporting a formal verification of UML diagrams using the Maude language. The approach considers both static and dynamic features of object-oriented systems. We focus, in particular, on UML class, state and communication diagrams. The formal and object-oriented language Maude, based on rewriting logic, supports formal specification and programming of concurrent systems, as well as model checking. The major motivations of this work are: (1) bind together the UML notation and the Maude language (2) preserve the coherence in object-oriented systems description, (3) use model checking techniques to support formally their verification process. The generated Maude specifications, from the considered UML diagrams, are validated by simulation and model checking. The approach is illustrated using a concrete case study.