Analysis & Simulation of MBSE models provides a powerful means to explore a trade space and find an optimal solution for specific requirements on that system. In this presentation, we describe work that BigLever and Ansys are doing to expand the scope of this paradigm from the trade space analysis & simulation for an individual system to the Trade Space Analysis & Simulation for a System Family. This expanded scope is valuable when an optimal solution might exist somewhere within multiple members of a system family or during the search for multiple different solutions within multiple members of a system family.

Our solution comprises a 3-way integration between Feature-based Product Line Engineering (PLE), Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and Analysis & Simulation (SIM). We characterize these three relationships according to the granularity of variation supported by each: Configure, Select, and Tune.

Configure with Feature-base PLE and MBSE. Integration between PLE and MBSE, such as the Vitech GENESYS/BigLever Gears Bridge, enables significant degrees of architectural variation among members of a system family. Trade studies can be defined across a specified range of configurations.

Select with Feature-based PLE and SIM. Within the context of a distinct MBSE architecture and its associated SIM, there can be further PLE sections for optional and varying SIM capabilities. Trade studies can be defined across a specified range of selections.

Tune with MBSE and SIM. MBSE data values and ranges can define a sequence of SIM executions for a trade study, such as the analytical models in Ansys Model Center being driven by Vitech GENESYS model data. Trade studies can thereby be defined across a specified range of tunings.

The integration of PLE, MBSE, and SIM results in a powerful new solution for doing Trade Space Analysis & Simulation for a System Family by combining configuration, selection, and tuning.

Speaker Biography

Dr. Charles Krueger is founder and CEO of BigLever Software, which for over two decades has helped organizations adopt and benefit from Feature-based Product Line Engineering (PLE). With more than 30 years of experience in systems and software engineering practice, he brings innovative PLE concepts, state-of-the-art methodologies, and success stories to the forefront of the systems engineering community. He was the lead editor for the ISO/IEC 26580 standard on Feature-based PLE and co-chair for the INCOSE PLE International Working Group.

Scott Ragon, Ansys, Bio – TBD