Towards an UML Based Graphical Representation of Grid Workflow Applications

摘要

Grid workflow applications are emerging as one of the most interesting programming models for the Grid. In this paper we present a novel approach for graphically modeling and describing Grid workflow applications based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML). Our approach provides a graphic representation of Grid applications based on a widely accepted standard (UML) that is more amenable than pure textual-oriented specifications (such as XML). We describe some of the most important elements for modeling control flow, data flow, synchronization, notification, and constraints. We also introduce new features that have not been included by other Grid workflow specification languages which includes broadcast and parallel loops. Our UML-based graphical editor Teuta provides the corresponding tool support. We demonstrate our approach by describing a UML-based Grid workflow model for an advanced 3D medical image reconstruction application.