Comparative analysis of model‐based and traditional systems engineering approaches for simulating a robotic space system architecture through automatic knowledge processing

• Published in: Systems engineering 2022-07, Vol.25 (4), p.360-386
• Main Authors: Younse, Paulo, Cameron, Jessica, Bradley, Thomas H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Automation; Computer architecture; Computer programming; Experimentation; modeling and simulation; Modelling; model‐based systems engineering (MBSE); robotic space systems; Simulation; Systems analysis; Systems engineering; User experience
• ISSN: 1098-1241; 1520-6858
• DOI: 10.1002/sys.21619

Model‐based Systems Engineering (MBSE) case studies in the literature assert that there are benefits to MBSE when applied to modeling and simulating space systems. This research evaluates the benefits of an MBSE modeling and simulation approach over a traditional, non‐MBSE approach through modeling and simulation of an orbiting sample Capture and Orient Module (COM) architecture for potential Mars Sample Return (MSR). The COM architecture was modeled, simulated, and evaluated against nominal load power and output data rate requirements to compare the two approaches. A new modeling and simulation‐centric V‐model was synthesized from existing V‐model and modeling and simulation process models to map out the modeling and simulation activities within the context of the system development lifecycle and used as a tool to compare the non‐MBSE and MBSE approaches. A three‐phase modeling and simulation process consisting of an analysis and modeling phase, computer programming and implementation phase, and experimentation phase was used to model and simulate the COM. The total number of manual and automatic knowledge processed was calculated for both approaches and used to quantify the benefits of the MBSE approach relative to the non‐MBSE approach. In the non‐MBSE approach, all knowledge elements were manually processed during the modeling and simulation process. In the MBSE approach, 49% of total knowledge processing was automated. The MBSE approach showed user experience benefits with modeling and simulating the COM robotic space system through providing a higher level of support for automation, reducing the burden of systems engineering tasks, and reducing effort.