Model-Based Systems Engineering in Support of Complex Systems Development

Model-based systems engineering techniques facilitate complex system design and docu- mentation processes. A rigorous, iterative " conceptual development process based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML) or the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) and consisting of domain modeling, use case development, and behavioral and structural modeling supports design, architect-ing, analysis, modeling and simulation, test and evaluation, and program management activities. The resulting model is more useful than traditional documentation because it represents structure, data, and functions, along with associated documentation, in a multidimensional, navigable format. Beyond benefits to project documentation and stakeholder communication, UML- and SysML-based models also support direct analysis methods, such as functional thread extraction. The APL team is continuing to develop analysis techniques using conceptual models to reduce the risk of design and test errors, reduce costs, and improve the quality of analysis and supporting modeling and simulation activities in the development of complex systems.