System Of Systems Modeling for Urban Air Mobility Concept

Nowadays, in software, electronics and automotive industries, it takes 1.5–2 years for a new product to appear, although it takes 3 or even more years to develop new space instruments. The update of higher education system standards is even more conservative. It takes 10 or more years. Because of this, graduates come into the industry with outdated knowledge. Thus, the problem is to synchronize the processes of updating technologies that ensure the creation of innovative products with educational programs. It can be solved by changing the paradigm of products creation based on the synthesis of deep and interdisciplinary educational, scientific, innovative and production activities with the model-based systems engineering software and methodological tools.The existing model-based systems engineering (MBSE) Software (SW) tools based on the Systems Modelling Language (SysML) are complex and expensive. This chapter raises the question, “Is it possible to make use of MBSE SW and methodological tools available to a wide audience of users?” To answer this question, the following MBSE approaches and tools were researched: Quality Function Deployment (QFD), House of Quality (HoQ), and SysML. Consequently, five methodological tools were developed for application during space instruments design and development life cycle stages. Tools are based on SysML, QFD, HoQ improvements and synthesis, and expressed in theoretical and practical algorithms.The theoretical algorithm determines “What” (input and output data) and “How” (by using which systems engineering (including MBSE) tools are methodically analysed at the certain space instruments life cycle stage. The practical algorithm automates the development of SysML diagrams by using data structured in HoQ models and widely available SW. It reduces the time to develop and update SysML requirements diagrams from several days to some minutes and enables implementation of SysML SW by many users. Altogether, the obtained results constitute the software and methodological toolkit (SMT) called “improved Quality Function Deployment for improved House of Quality”.To disseminate the obtained results, educational materials were created and validated during lectures on systems engineering. Lectures were supplemented with seminars and practicum. Practicum was focused on the design and development (D&D) of nanosatellites in the MBSE paradigm as the single project. The results showed that the developed SMT makes it possible to implement the life cycle of the cyber-physical system in the MBSE paradigm in a cost-effective way and a short time—in 6 months, students developed, conducted synthesis and flight tests of CubeSat-format satellite prototype and prepared the project documentation. In addition, students were motivated to study science, technology, engineering and math disciplines, MBSE tools, and become transdisciplinary specialists.In addition, developed SysML requirements models were applied to examine the “Preliminary Design” product life cycle (PLC) stage of different space projects. Such application allowed quick assessment of project results, identifying non-compliance with requirements, conducting beforehand all necessary corrections and generating correct new product documentation. Taking into account the mentioned advantages of the obtained MBSE SMT, it can be concluded that its usage improves the quality and accuracy of current projects and speeds up the planning process of future analogue projects by up to 60%. Consequently, projects (their life cycle stages) can be realized faster by 5–10%.These results allow to recommend for all interested in the innovative D&D of systems to initiate: formation of educational programs based on the project approach and MBSE paradigm; preparation of MBSE materials for online and offline teaching of students and teachers; development of domestic widely available software for the development of integrated SysML models with HoQ models that assures synchronization with CAE/CAD/CAM systems; support these recommendations for the implementation of the above-mentioned research results at educational organizations of different levels. The future research is focused on the application of the developed MBSE methodological toolkit during design and development with numerical modelling and operation of several CubeSat satellites.KeywordsSystems engineeringMBSEParadigmMethodological toolkitSysMLQFDHoQ

The use of systems engineering has proven effective in managing complexity and improving system design. Model based system engineering utilizing the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) especially helps in multidisciplinary environments where engineering data needs to be transformed and integrated between environments. Manufacturing is another discipline same as systems engineering is on active digitalization transformation. In the paper, we propose method and solution to apply Model based system engineering (MBSE) for improvement of process planning of assembly lines leveraging model based approach. SysML modeling and execution enable automation of analysis activities as trade‐off, where the behavior of various assembly scenarios of an assembly line can be captured using SysML behavioral diagrams and compared based on various evaluation criteria. However, relying solely on descriptive SysML system models without integrating the virtual representation of the assembly line is insufficient to verify all aspects of system behavior, such as ergonomics and collision avoidance. The main objective of this work is to present a concept for transforming SysML assembly scenarios into the process and resources models of the computer‐aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) environment. This yields a holistic view that serves as a foundation for further production‐related simulations and analyses, enhancing efficiency, ergonomic design, factory layout, and material flow, ensuring effective assembly workstation design optimized at systems engineering level.

One approach to tackle the complexity in the development of cyber-physical systems is system decomposition and modelling in a central system model with model-based system engineering (MBSE). However, MBSE also requires increased development effort due to the high degree of formalisation of the development results using the Systems Modelling Language (SysML). One solution is reusing system elements from model libraries, which requires formalization that allows them to be networked into consistent models. Due to the abstract nature of SysML, the options for formalizing system elements are extremely diverse, meaning that even identical technical system elements are modelled with a different structure by engineers. As a consequence, no standardized structure is maintained and the reuse of system elements from model libraries is very unlikely. This leads to high, redundant modelling efforts as well as a considerable error potential and significantly hinders the economic application of MBSE in mechanical engineering. A standardized structure of the system elements can be ensured through MBSE methodology specific modelling guidelines. Current modelling guidelines for MBSE are based on the SysMLv1 language standard and cannot be used unchanged in SysML v2. Nevertheless, SysML v2 offers great potential for modelling reusable system elements, especially with its synonymous textual and graphical modelling capabilities, enabling the easy linkage of knowledge from various domain-specific tools. Consequently, modelling guidelines based on SysML v2, which guarantee a standardized structure, are required to fully exploit the potential of model libraries in MBSE. To solve this deficit, this paper presents modelling guidelines based on SysML v2 and their application for building reusable system elements.

This study compares the types and quantities of knowledge that are captured by a model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) approach and a traditional architecting approach to measure the benefits of the MBSE approach in managing the complexity of a robotic space system. The MBSE approach was implemented with Cameo Systems Modeler using Systems Modeling Language (SysML) and applied to architecting an orbiting sample Capture and Orient Module (COM) system concept for a Capture, Containment, and Return System payload concept for potential Mars Sample Return. An architecture framework was established, covering system, subsystem, and assembly levels, along with structure, behavior, data, and requirements perspectives. The COM system architecture was captured in parallel using both the MBSE and non‐MBSE approaches in order to provide a side‐by‐side comparison of the approaches. The approaches were evaluated based on how well each represented the information content of the COM system architecture. A total of 4389 knowledge elements were classified using the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy knowledge dimension and used to quantitatively compare the two approaches. The MBSE approach more completely captured architectural knowledge than the non‐MBSE approach. Limitations to the SysML‐based MBSE approach were also identified, including its ability to fully represent certain high‐level conceptual, procedural, and metacognitive knowledge such as design principles, design approaches and rationales, risks, development strategies and rationales, organizational core competencies, and requirement verification methods. The overall results demonstrate the benefits of MBSE in managing the complexity of robotic space systems and strengthen the case for adopting MBSE within the systems engineering community.

This article proposes a novel methodology aimed at streamlining the system’s development process. By examining existing state-of-the-art approaches and the capabilities inherent in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools, the article introduces a methodology centered around transforming a descriptive Systems Modeling Language (SysML) model into a digital twin. This virtual representation of the physical asset leverages real-time data and simulations to mirror its behavior and characteristics. When integrated with MBSE, this synergy allows for a comprehensive and dynamic approach, enhancing innovation by providing a holistic and adaptable framework for designing, analyzing, and optimizing complex systems throughout their lifecycle. The practical application of this Real-Time Communication and Data Acquisition (RT-CDA) methodology is implemented in a context and operational scenario of an electric unmanned autonomous vehicle employing both Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) approaches. The methodology empowers systems engineers to iteratively update and refine their system model’s fidelity based on real-world testing insights. The article specifically demonstrates the real-time communication capabilities achieved between an electric unmanned autonomous vehicle (a physical asset) and a descriptive (SysML) model, illustrating the real-time data aspect integral to the concept of a digital twin. This study serves as a foundation for future endeavors, envisioning real-time communication among virtual and physical models to construct comprehensive digital twins of complex systems to predict behavior and performance.

A System of Systems (SoS) is a large complex system, with varying degrees of operational independence, managerial independence, evolutionary development, geographical distribution and lifecycle independence. Critical Infrastructure such as the electrical grid contains all the aspects of a SoS. Due to the ever‐increasing complexity of the grid, a single model encompassing all aspects of the grid would be impossible. Hence, we need to abstract the problem into a SoS set of aspects and examine the system both at the SoS level, as well as the detailed level. This will require the use of standardized systems modeling tools such as the Systems Modeling Language (SysML), and the Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) to define the overall goals, strategies, capabilities, interactions, standards, operational and system architecture, system patterns and so forth. This paper will examine the electrical grid as a SoS, define common characteristics, identify issues and vulnerabilities and MBSE strategies for addressing them.

This thesis examines the feasibility of substituting the system input script of Cal Poly’s Horizon Simulation Framework (HSF) with a Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) model designed with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). A concurrent student project, SysML Output Interface Creation for the Horizon Simulation Framework, focused on design of the HSF Translator Plugin which converts SysML models to an HSF specific XML format. A SysML model of the HSF test case, Aeolus, was designed. The original Aeolus HSF input script and the translated SysML input script retained the format and dependency structure required by HSF. Both input scripts returned identical results and thus validated the feasibility of linking SysML with HSF through the HSF Translator Plugin. A second SysML model of the Cal Poly CubeSat mission, ExoCube, was also designed and converted into an HSF input script. The ExoCube input script also retained the format and dependency structure required by HSF. This demonstrated that future SysML models can be used in conjunction with the HSF Translator Plugin to create a functional HSF system input script.

Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is a discipline of systems engineering in which the model forms the heart of all the systems engineering activities and is the basis of many of the project artefacts. Systems modeling is no longer viewed as simply a “good idea” but is becoming an increasingly important part of any systems engineering project. The application of MBSE is becoming well understood at the systems level; however, there is a lack of research and subsequent industrial application at the system of systems (SoS) level. This paper presents a model-based approach to requirements engineering for SoSs. The approach is derived from an MBSE approach to requirements engineering and therefore represents current best practice in SoSs in terms of established standards and research. This paper builds upon and is an evolution of the initial foundations for model-based requirements engineering for systems of systems that were published in an earlier paper.

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is a system for passenger and air cargo transportation within an urban area. It includes small package delivery and other urban unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and supports a mix of onboard piloted, ground-piloted and increasingly autonomous operations. UAM is developing rapidly due to advances in technology. Several aerospace and vehicle manufacturers are developing automated aerial vehicle and piloted aerial vehicle prototypes, and pilot projects are underway in Dubai and planned for Dallas and Los Angeles in the early 2020s. The UAM market is broad and includes potential applications such as air taxi, personal commuting, air ambulance, and law enforcement. Due to the recent emergence of this technology, there has been little research into the potentially significant weather impacts on safety, cost, and efficiency of UAM operations and vehicles.Conducted as part of a comprehensive UAM market assessment, this research identifies potential key weather barriers to UAM due to a variety of weather conditions and public perception of flying in adverse weather. To characterize challenging weather conditions, a comprehensive seasonal and diurnal climatology was generated based on historical observations across anticipated UAM operational altitudes (surface – 5000 ft AGL) at ten focus urban areas in the United States. Weather related societal barriers to UAM were evaluated through a large general population survey where respondents were asked about their views regarding flying in a UAM vehicle amid various adverse weather conditions. Regional variability in weather conditions and potential barriers were also evaluated and will be described.

Nowadays, there is an increase in the demand for optimized services in urban environments. However, ground transportation in big urban centers has been facing challenges for many years (e.g., resilience and congestion) and new paradigms have been proposed, such as the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) concept. UAM aims to enhance the urban transportation system using manned and unmanned aerial vehicles (i.e., Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing - eVTOL - vehicles). Although UAM offers many benefits (e.g., cost reduction and increase in transportation capacity), many challenges need to be faced to enable safe and efficient operations. Furthermore, trajectory planning is challenging in the National Airspace System (NAS) and UAM operations due to several factors. Finally, new initiatives concerning UAM trajectory planning can be accelerated with the support of an automatic what-if platform capable of evaluating trajectories feasibility and efficiency. This research aims to propose a simulation platform for enabling trajectory evaluation in UAM operations. This platform, named Trajectory-Based Urban Air Mobility Simulator (TUS), focuses on simulating trajectories in the urban aerial environment. TUS enables users to test new UAM algorithms (e.g., flow management strategies, real-time evaluation of maneuvers effectiveness, airspace configurations) and simulate both manned and unmanned vehicles. Furthermore, TUS operation relies on a set of inputs and evaluates the trajectories generated from efficiency and safety perspectives. This process is performed using a Discrete Event Simulation (DES) approach. The experiments performed showed that TUS can perform a realistic evaluation of UAM trajectories and can be effortlessly used to simulate hundreds of scenarios.

Model-based approaches such as Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) are widely regarded as a necessity to enable and support the development of ever more complex Systems of Systems (SoS). A key to the application of model-based development approaches in companies is the introduction of systems engineering architecture frameworks (SEAF) to structure the models of systems to be developed. This paper displays the research to develop a SEAF for SoS. Through workshops and interviews with 18 partners from industry and research, we derived perspectives to be considered for describing and modeling SoS. By analyzing existing SEAFs from literature we concluded, that not all perspectives we identified as relevant are covered by a single framework. Based on our research, especially the explicit consideration of SoS characteristics such as autonomy and interdependence, the integrated consideration of product, production system and validation system development, as well as consideration of different product generations and (re-)use of models appears to be not profoundly addressed. Advancing the state of research, we therefore propose a six-dimensional SoS engineering architecture framework to cover all perspectives we identified as relevant. The proposed framework can further serve as a reference for developers to derive and build specific frameworks tailored to their needs while at the same time supporting consistency, reusability and compatibility of the specific frameworks. The presented framework is an initial proposition which continuously being used and evaluated by its application to structure modeling for a variety of real systems from different industries. Insights from the application are fed back for its further development.

<title>ABSTRACT</title> <p>As systems become more complicated, managing them from conceptual design through disposal has become significantly more difficult. Traditional process- and document-based methods often struggle to cope with the realities of designing and fielding modern engineered systems; relevant information can become segmented and out-of-sync, leading to costly errors.</p> <p>The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) initiated a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) initiative nearly fifteen years ago; one of the fruits of this effort is the System Modeling Language (SysML). Modern SysML tools are quite mature and have considerable capabilities to capture, characterize, and connect information.</p> <p>A number of efforts are currently underway to maximize the value of SysML models, including the development of visualization, co-simulation, and robust model integration. An entire ecosystem of adjacent tools is evolving that will significantly impact the practice of systems engineering within the next five years. This paper presents an integrated look at publically-available information about existing worldwide efforts and their implications for systems engineering practitioners.</p>

For years the system engineering community has been armed with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) using the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) and a host of vendor provided tools to facilitate requirements, architecture and design development. Nonetheless, teams repeatedly struggle to apply MBSE in part because they do not have a method to complement the language and the tools. This paper seeks to offer elements of method focusing on process, a powerful style to enable teamwork in a model, and set of flexible approaches to guide work which is consistent with that style. This paper focuses on an easy to use process for building a System Architecture Model (SAM), allowing for tailoring to meet program‐specific needs. The paper identifies and encourages the use of a variety of SAM development approaches which are focused on the themes of data centricity, consistency, commonality in style, and efficiently creating content that will answer most engineering questions related to architecture. This process is implemented in SysML as a “One Page Process”, and made openly available for download. Furthermore, automated validation via a rules‐based engine is leveraged to catch and correct defects nearly as quickly as they are generated as well as scale SAM development across a large diverse team of contributors. By leveraging and tailoring this process to meet program needs, one may improve the quality, development tempo, and rigor of their SAM.

As Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) was applied to the Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) braking system control logic, a preliminary exploration was conducted for bullet train braking system control logic research using an MBSE practice framework. The framework mainly includes the requirement analysis phase, functional analysis phase, and design phase. Systems Modeling Language (SysML) was used as the modeling language, and Cameo Systems Modeler (CSM) was employed as the modeling tool. By integrating the EMU braking system control logic and utilizing a top-down design approach, the implementation of MBSE in the bullet train braking system was analyzed and studied. The results show that, according to the MBSE practice framework, a unified description of the requirement analysis, functional analysis, and design synthesis of the EMU braking system control logic can be achieved. Additionally, the correlation and traceability between models can be established.

The recent Department of Defense (DoD) guidebook, Systems Engineering Guide for Systems of Systems , describes how traditional systems engineering activities have evolved to support systems engineering at the system of systems (SoS) level. Part of the research for this guidebook probed the application of modeling and simulation to support SoS systems engineering. The findings indicated that limited modeling and simulation are currently used, but that additional support would be useful if models could be quickly generated and used to support needed decision making. This paper presents an approach to using Systems Modeling Language (SysML) models to support these needs. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 16