Workcraft - A framework for interpreted graph models

Abstract

A large number of models that are employed in the field of concurrent systems design, such as Petri Nets, gate-level circuits, Static Data Flow Structures and Conditional Partial Order Graphs have an underlying static graph structure. Their semantics, however, is defined using additional entities, e.g. tokens or node/arc states, which in turn form the overall state of the system. We jointly refer to such formalisms as Interpreted Graph Models. The similarities in notation allow for links between different models to be created, such as interfaces between different formalisms or conversion from one model type into another, which greatly extend the range of applicable analysis techniques. This paper presents the new version of the Workcraft tool designed to provide a flexible common framework for development of Interpreted Graph Models, including visual editing, (co-)simulation and analysis. The latter can be carried out either directly or by mapping a model into a behaviourally equivalent model of a different type (usually a Petri Net). Hence the user can design a system using the most appropriate formalism (or even different formalisms for the subsystems), while still utilising the power of Petri Net analysis techniques. The tool is platform-independent, highly customisable by means of plug-ins, and is freely available for academic use. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.