Practical Application of Model Based Systems Engineering to Early Phase Space System Development

Kurzfassung

Systems that are developed to function within the harsh and remote environment of space are inherently complex. A shift towards Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) promises to provide a better way to manage complexity and facilitate the progress of spacecraft development. This paper describes the exploration of an application of MBSE conducted at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Institute of Space Systems as part of a thesis project for a mastère spécialisé undertaken at the Institut Supérieur de l'Aéronautique et de l'Espace. In addition to the support and access provided by the DLR, this project was also supported by the provision of an academic licence for the GENESYS software by the Vitech Corporation and through MBSE subject matter expertise provided by the Australian systems engineering company Shoal. Model Based Systems Engineering, the application of modelling to support aspects of systems engineering, is of interest to the systems engineering discipline as it offers significant potential benefits to communication, specification and design precision, design integration, and reuse, which could improve design quality, productivity, and reduce development risk. In order to explore the possible benefits and value added by the application of MBSE, two space system models were created using the Vitech Corporation GENESYS tool. First a generic spacecraft template model was built. This model was built to contain and connect the system information usually required for Phase 0, A and B of spacecraft development. By remaining generic, the template model promotes re-use for future applications. A copy of the template model was then populated using the output of a DLR preliminary system definition concurrent engineering study. The connections between preliminary requirements, system components and operational behaviour were explored using the model. This was done in order to see how a systems model introduced into the early phase development process could influence and benefit the spacecraft design process through the possible early identification of further system requirements, gaps and unmet needs. The key research question for this project was “What value can be added by practically applying MBSE to the process of developing a space system at the DLR?” In answering this question, three areas were explored. The project investigated the use of a systems model to capture the design process of a space system. The project also studied the potential for MBSE to support and enhance, rather than only record, the design process. In addition, the project examined the utility and benefit of utilising a systems model during space system development.