A Mechanism for Universal Smart Contract: Advancing Blockchain Interoperability Using Model-Driven Engineering

Abstract

Achieving a balance between interoperability and security in blockchain systems has led to the development of various integration mechanisms. These include the use of specialized smart contracts to facilitate cross-chain interactions, enabling reliable connections and secure transfers of information and assets. While technical interoperability is effectively addressed at lower layers, achieving semantic interoperability at the application layer remains a significant challenge. This paper proposes a mechanism to address this challenge by leveraging a model-driven approach. Metamodels, models, and transformations are created, and smart contracts are defined abstractly and then semi-automatically generated for specific blockchain platforms. The proposed approach was validated by generating contracts between Ethereum and Hyperledger, enabling semantically compatible transactions. The mechanism was further evaluated using the Technology Acceptance Model with expert participants. This evaluation demonstrated its effectiveness in specifying and transforming contracts and fostering semantic interoperability across blockchains.