10.5.1 An MBSE Case Study and Research Challenges

Abstract

Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is an emerging practice that provides major advantages over document‐based engineering design approaches: traceability and transparency of the evolving design, improved design completeness, and improved knowledge sharing. The paper opens with an introduction to contemporary systems engineering practice, its limitations and the need for MBSE. Then the paper describes an MBSE case study on the ground‐based air missile defence system, which includes SysML model design and development, lessons learnt and insights, and a set of derived research challenges for future research and development.

MBSE adoption experiences in organizations: Lessons learned

“…An MBSE method should be defined and used as widely and consistently as possible. 4,6,15,17,28,29,32,34,43,50,51,57 Organizational design It is important to consider all domains/departments when adopting MBSE. 1,27 Interfaces between organizational subunits should be identified and standards applied across those subunits as much as possible.…”

“…4,18,33,45,53 Modeling guidelines should be formalized to ensure consistent practices. 4,18,33,34,50,61 Model reviews Regular model reviews should involve model contributors and domain experts. 34 Model reviews should be conducted by going through model files instead of static images.…”

“…Some stakeholder groups may, if allowed, become enamored of the model or the modelling process rather than focused on making the decisions the model was created for." 50 "The process itself needs to be visible, with a clearly defined purpose and observable benefits of using supporting models -using models or diagrams to communicate complex use cases and system functionality is likely to be beneficial and improve communication of design information, but the process by which this is done must also be clear." 41…”

“…31,38 Model definition/guidelines It is important to "set clear modeling objectives" right from the beginning of a project clearly defining the purpose behind the model. 15,26,34,36,41,50,53 Stopping criteria should be defined so the model is not over-detailed. 4,18,33,45,53 Modeling guidelines should be formalized to ensure consistent practices.…”

Application of a System Engineering Framework to the Subsea Front‐End Engineering study

“…Model based system engineering is an emerging direction of system engineering, which are replacing the more traditional document based system engineering. The benefits of MBSE over the document-based includes traceability and transparency of the evolving design, improved design completeness, and improved knowledge sharing (Do & Cook, 2012). Incose SE Vision 2020(INCOSE, 2007 defines Model Based System Engineering as "the formalized application of modeling to support system requirements, design, analysis, verification and validation activities beginning in the conceptual design phase and continuing throughout development and later life cycle phases."…”