The Use of UML and Petri Net for Graphic Specification of the Reconfigurable Logic Controllers

The paper presents an approach to modeling programs for reconfigurable logic controllers using Unified Modeling Language and Petri net notations. The proposed design method attempts to combine the advantages of graphical notation (readability, convenience, intuitiveness) with the benefits of text specification languages (precision, versatility) and sophisticated model verification tools. The UML model and Petri net model are transformed separately into effective programs in Hardware Description Languages (Verilog, VHDL). Moreover, the Petri net model (created based on UML model) can be used for analysis and verification of the designed system. The obtained HDL specifications can be simulated, synthesized and implemented in modern reconfigurable Field Programmable Gate Array devices. A practical example illustrating the benefits of the proposed method is also presented.