Integrated Modeling and Analysis to Support Model-Based Systems Engineering

Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is an approach to improve traditional document-based systems engineering approach through the use of a system model. In the current practice of system developments, there exists a large gap between systems engineering activities and engineering analyses, because systems engineers and engineering analysts are using different models, tools and terminology. The gap results in inefficiencies and quality issues that can be very expensive. This work presents an integrated modeling and analysis capability that bridges the gap. The technical approach is based on integrating SysML modeling tools with process integration and design optimization framework. This approach connects SysML models with various engineering analysis tools through a common interface. A capability was developed to automatically generate analysis models from a system model and then execute the analytical models. Requirements conformance analysis was performed using results of engineering analysis. A technique was developed to define optimization problems in SysML, where requirements were used as design constraints. The integrated system modeling and analysis capability was demonstrated using an automobile brake pad design example. The integrated toolset was used to understand impacts of requirements changes in the SysML model and to find a new design that meets the new requirements through engineering design optimization.