Versatile system-level memory-aware platform description approach for embedded MPSoCs

System models are constructed to design, study, and understand complex systems. According to the systems modeling language (SysML) that is a standard for model-based system engineering, all engineering activities should be performed using a common model. To validate complex system models defined in SysML, simulation is usually employed. There are numerous efforts to simulate SysML models using different simulation methods and tools. However, the efficient support of automated generation of executable simulation code is still an issue tangled by the research community. This paper introduces DEVSys, an integrated framework for utilizing existing SysML models and automatically producing executable discrete event simulation code, according to model driven architecture (MDA) concepts. Although this approach is not simulation-specific, discrete event system specification (DEVS) was employed, due to the similarities between SysML and DEVS, mainly in system structure description, and the mature, yet ongoing research on expressing executable DEVS models in a simulator-neutral manner. DEVSys framework elements include (a) a SysML profile for DEVS, enabling integration of simulation capabilities into SysML models, (b) a meta-model for DEVS, allowing the utilization of MDA concepts and tools, (c) a transformation of SysML models to DEVS models, using a standard model transformation language as query/view/transform (QVT), and (d) the generation of DEVS executable code for a DEVS simulation environment with an extensible markup language (XML) interface. The definition and implementation of DEVSys elements, as well as the process for its application are demonstrated and discussed, with the aid of a simple working example.

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.

Under the complex operational environment of the antimissile operation, the application of Systems Modeling Language (SysML) parametric model in weapon system effectiveness evaluation is explored. The function of parametric graph model, the construction process of the model and the optimization method of the model are researched. Using feedback mechanism to collect, collate and calculate the parameters of the model, and realize the leap from the index relationship description to the calculation of the index. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by using the system of antimissile weapon system as an example.

Integrating Analytical Models with Descriptive System Models: Implementation of the OMG SyML Standard for the Tool-specific Case of MapleSim and MagicDraw

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.

In this chapter, we provide the essential theory and practical details of employing the principles of Object Orientation (OO) in system architecture modeling. We do not attempt to provide an exhaustive OO tutorial, since there exists a very large literature on this subject (see the references to this chapter). Our goal, instead, is to give the reader the level of understanding needed to master the MBSAP methodology and apply it to practical system architecting challenges. First, we present the rationale for OO and define the essential concepts and terminology, stressing the benefits it delivers in dealing with complex entities. Although we use the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) as the basis for this book, we begin by discussing and illustrating the primary diagrams of the Unified Modeling Language (UML), which is the root language standard for OO. This is then followed by a description of the changes to UML introduced by the SysML, which is defined as a Profile of UML. The reality is that a large part of the SysML is taken directly from the UML language specification. We believe understanding of this material is enhanced by first considering the parent UML and then explicitly showing how UML modifies and extends the language. We include generic UML and SysML diagrams that illustrate important principles and syntax and that can serve as format samples in developing real architecture models. Appendices A and B are concise references to UML and SysML, respectively, intended to give readers a quick and easy way to look up the details. Chapter objective: the reader will be able to create and read UML and SysML diagrams and to describe the role of each.

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

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.

The development process of complex systems needs to take in account differents domains and aspects. SysML (Systems Modeling Language) is a new modeling language that allows a system description with various integrated diagrams (as structure, behavior and requirements diagrams), but SysML lacks formality for the requirement verification. The aim of this paper is to propose an approach to verify complex systems using SysML as a language which describes the system structure and requirements. Petri nets and temporal logic LTL are used respectively to formalize the system behavior and requirements. The benefit of such formalization is to allow an automatic formal verification. In order to demonstrate this methodology, it will be used a factory automation system, modeled by SysML and Petri nets, and verified by the TINA toolbox.

A complexity metric is proposed for the quantification of system complexity using information about the composition of a system and its interactions depicted in a System Modelling Language (SysML) model. The proposed metric is adapted from the complexity metric developed for design structure matrix (DSM) applications and was modified to allow the metric to be applied at different decomposition levels and to accommodate the inclusion of external interactions. The metric was applied to three case studies: a Mars lander, a CubeSat and a spacecraft thermal control system. The proposed metric attributed a higher amount of complexity due to the interactions compared to the DSM metric. This variance resulted in instances where the results differed for the two metrics. Despite these differences, both metrics behaved similarly to changes in component or interaction complexity.

Most conventional industrial product's value is at its maximum at the time of purchase, and starts decreasing until its disposal. Therefore, the lifecycle of products tend to be short, which leads to mass production and mass consumption harming the environment. In order to face this issue, a methodology, which aims to increase products value, is proposed as the Value Growth Design. In a previous study, we proposed the concept of Value Growth Mobility that has two basic systems: a Core Module System and a Service System. This paper describes the development of a Service System supporting mobility's value growth. To develop the Service System, a system development method integrating the Multispace Design Method and System Modeling Language (SysML) is used. The Multispace Design Method is a design method based on a Multispace Design Model that can describe various behaviors of design from the common perspective. SysML is a modeling language that supports a development of the large-scale and complicated system by diagram description. By applying the method integrating the Multispace Design Method and SysML, a new Service System that considers psychological elements including sense of attachment and intimacy that the user gains toward the vehicle is proposed. Additionally, the design of subsystems to realize this Service System is discussed.

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.

The security of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) has become an important topic. Recent attacks have shown that inadequately protecting control systems could have disastrous consequences for society. This paper presents an extension for the Systems Modeling Language (SysML), allowing for the extraction of vulnerabilities from an industrial control system model. After a control system is modeled in SysML, the model is converted into input for a formal reasoning tool. This tool contains a logic theory which is used for the vulnerability extraction. The rules in this logic theory are inferred from the ICS-CERT vulnerability database and ICS security standards. Once the vulnerabilities have been extracted, they are included in the SysML diagrams of the model. The modeling approach allows the user to quickly see which changes to the system get rid of the reported vulnerabilities. It is also possible to mark certain components as compromised to see the consequences of attacks on these components for system security as a whole. The resulting analysis can be used to strengthen the security of the control system.

Simulation languages and the GUIs supporting them may be excellent tools for creating simulation codes, but are not necessarily the best tools to use for creating descriptions of systems, i. e., for modeling. In 2006, OMG published the initial standard specification (OMG 2006) for SysML (Systems Modeling Language), an extension of UML (OMG 2007) designed specifically to support systems engineering. SysML shows great promise for creating object-oriented models of systems that incorporate not only software, but also people, material, and other physical resources, expressing both structure and behavior for such systems. In this paper, we explore the use of SysML both to model a system to be simulated and to support the automatic generation of simulation models.

An Integrated Intelligent Modeling and Simulation Language for Model-based Systems Engineering