Title: A novel graph-based modelling approach for reducing complexity in model-based systems engineering environment

Authors: Maxim Filimonov; Ilias Oraifige; Venkatesh Vijay

Addresses: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Engineering and the Built Environment, Birmingham City University, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG, UK ' Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Engineering and the Built Environment, Birmingham City University, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG, UK ' Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Engineering and the Built Environment, Birmingham City University, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG, UK

Abstract: Field of systems engineering is developing rapidly and becoming more complex, where multiple issues arise like overcomplexity, lack of communication or understanding of the design process. Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) has been introduced to overcome these issues and reduce systems complexity. Nonetheless, the system model remains static and the interactions among submodels are modelled in the form of hard-coded rules. Therefore, systems interaction in MBSE is not dynamic enough to satisfy the evolving nature of system models with growing complexity. In this paper, a novel approach for modelling logic is proposed to address the above challenge. The aim of the research is to improve existing methodologies and interaction modelling as well as deal with inconsistencies. The approach is based on graph theory, where pre-defined rules and relationships are substituted and reorganised dynamically with graphical constructs while metagraphs being the most applicable for systems modelling. Framework for reducing complexity is presented.

Keywords: MBSE; model-based systems engineering; graph-based modelling; object-oriented approach; metagraph; systems engineering; DSM; design structure matrix; systems modelling language; design engineering.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSE.2020.109142

International Journal of System of Systems Engineering, 2020 Vol.10 No.2, pp.143 - 163

Received: 04 Sep 2019
Accepted: 01 Nov 2019
Published online: 21 Aug 2020 *

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