Model transformation dependability evaluation by the automated creation of model generators

Abstract

This thesis is on the automatic creation of model generators to assist the validation of model transformations. The model driven software development methodology advocates models as the main artefact to represent software during development. Such models are automatically converted, by transformation tools, to apply in different stages of development. In one application of the method, it becomes possible to synthesise software implementations from design models. However, the transformations used to convert models are man-made, and so prone to development error. An error in a transformation can be transmitted to the created software, potentially creating many invalid systems.

Evaluating that model transformations are reliable is fundamental to the success of modelling as a principle software development practice. Models generated via the technique presented in this thesis can be applied to validate transformations. In several existing transformation
validation techniques, some form of conversion is employed. However, those techniques do not apply to validate the conversions used there-in. A defining feature of the
current presentation is the utilization of transformations, making the technique self-hosting. That is, an implementation of the presented technique can create generators to assist model transformations validation and to assist validation of that implementation of the technique.