Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is an approach to systems engineering that uses digital modeling to support the development, management, and lifecycle of complex systems. Unlike traditional document-centric methods, MBSE emphasizes the use of visual models to represent and analyze the system’s requirements, design, verification, and validation. This approach enhances understanding, collaboration, and communication among stakeholders while reducing errors and improving system quality and efficiency.
In the SAFeCRAFT project, the University of Patras (UPAT) leads the development of the digital platform, utilizing MBSE to manage and integrate its complex system architecture. The platform comprises five primary subsystems, each further divided into specialized tools:
• The Monitoring System and its tools (T5.1)
• The Virtual Environment for the MCDM analysis (T5.2)
• The Digital Thread for the assessment of SAFs (T5.3)
• The Engine Management module (T5.5)
• The Predictive Maintenance module (T5.6)
By applying MBSE, UPAT can effectively break down these subsystems and their tools into manageable components. This modular approach simplifies the development process, ensuring each subsystem is meticulously designed, tested, and integrated. MBSE facilitates the clear definition of system requirements and interactions, enabling seamless integration and interoperability between different subsystems and tools.
To streamline the tools collection and development process, internal meetings have been organized. These meetings ensure that the tools are comprehensible to all stakeholders and facilitate collaborative decision-making. The general assembly will play a critical role in finalizing the tools, ensuring the tools meet the project’s requirements and standards.
Regarding the MCDM (Multi-Criteria Decision-Making) tool, it has already been developed to Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL4). This tool will undergo further refinement and enhancement as real data becomes available, improving its functionality and accuracy in the digital platform.
The integration of MBSE in developing our digital platform is expected to have significant positive impacts:
- Improved System Understanding and Communication: Visual models enhance clarity and facilitate better communication among stakeholders, reducing misunderstandings and errors.
- Enhanced Collaboration: MBSE promotes collaboration by providing a shared, visual representation of the system, ensuring all team members are aligned.
- Efficient Development: The modular approach simplifies the development process, allowing for concurrent development and testing of subsystems, accelerating the overall timeline.
- Increased Quality and Reliability: By rigorously defining and validating system requirements and interactions, MBSE helps ensure the platform’s robustness and reliability.
- Adaptability and Scalability: The platform can more easily adapt to changes and scale to incorporate new functionalities, thanks to the flexible, model-based approach.
In summary, MBSE will be instrumental in the successful development and integration of our digital platform, ensuring it meets high standards of quality, efficiency, and interoperability. The ongoing efforts in tools collection and development, led by the University of Patras and guided by MBSE principles, will significantly enhance the project’s outcomes and impact.
