Test Case Generation by EFSM Extracted from UML Sequence Diagrams

Abstract

The effectiveness of Model-Based Testing (MBT) is mainly due to the potential for automation it offers. If the model is formal and machine-readable, test cases can be derived automatically. The Extended Finite State Machine (EFSM) is a formal modeling technique widely used to represent a system. However, EFSM is not a common practice in industry. On the other hand, the Unified Modeling Language (UML) has become the de-facto standard for modeling software, but due to the lack of formal semantics, its diagrams can have ambiguous interpretations and are not suitable for testing automation. In this context, we present a systematic procedure for generating tests from a UML model. More specifically, our approach proposes a mapping from the UML Sequence Diagram into Extended Finite State Machine in order to provide a precise semantics to them and uses the ModelJUnit and JUnit libraries in order to generate test cases automatically.

Automated Model-Based Test Case Generation for UML Activity Diagrams using EFSM

“…Modeling techniques can enhance software testing productivity when used in this context [5]. Model-based test case generation (MB-TCG) is a methodology that involves the generation of tests using system models, which are based on model-based testing (MBT) [6].…”

“…Although this Diagram is widely used in this field, there is a lack of automated techniques for test generation from UML activity diagrams [10]. In addition to the mentioned problem, due to the lack of formal semantics, the use of UML diagrams can lead to inconsistency, transformation problems, and different interpretations [5]. Another issue of note is that UML specification presents a challenge in terms of navigation and comprehension [11].…”

“…Using formal models is one approach to mitigate these issues, as they offer precise semantics for representing system behavior [8]. Finite State Machines (FSMs) are a favorite notation in formal system modeling and testing software [5]. Although, formal models are rarely used in practice, probably because developers lack the necessary training and familiarity with the mathematical notation [11].…”

“…Formal models are highly recommended in Model-Based Testing (MBT) due to their ability to automate the testing process, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness [5]. Extended finite state machine (EFSM) is one of the formal models that have received significant attention and extensive study over the past few decades [12].…”

Geração de testes a partir de máquinas de estados finitos estendidas extraídas de diagramas de sequência UML

“…Para facilitar o entendimento das regras de transformação definidas neste trabalho, utilizou-se partes do Diagrama de Sequência de um Automated Teller Machine (ATM)(ROCHA et al, 2019). A seguir, é apresentada a descrição destas regras de transformação: Figura 18 -Regra InitEfsm.…”