UML decision node syntax for using objects in guard condition

Question

Given an object array, an instance of some arbitrary class Array, which for this purpose has an attribute length.

How can I model an UML activity diagram, that, at some point, uses array.length in an control flow statement, i.e. in guards of a decision node.

array = getArray();
if (array.length > 5)
    save();
else
    waitForData();

I know that the guards of the used decision node would be [array.length > 5] and [array.length <= 5]. But I am not sure how I can integrate this with the object flow present in activity diagrams.

Ister · Accepted Answer · 2016-08-18 08:58:54Z

2

UML does not specify how the guards should be described. It only requires it to be a logical expression i.e. one that evaluates either to true our to false. You can use a natural language, any programming language or OCL. The statement you've used is absolutely valid. Additionally you can put a status of an object on an object node, e.g. [length > 5]

answered Aug 18, 2016 at 8:58

Ister

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2 Comments

mike Over a year ago

I also just read that natural language contracts are perfectly acceptable in UML.

Peter Uhnak Over a year ago

@mike the purpose of OCL / precise languages is that they are machine-consumable and don't introduce ambiguity. If your target audience is humans, then natural language can be good enough.

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