A Scenario-Centric Model-Based Systems Engineering Approach for Virtually Coupled Train Sets

Kurzfassung

This thesis presents a scenario-centric Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach for constructing lifecycle-spanning operational scenarios from existing engineering artifacts in safety-critical systems. A structured methodology was developed to consolidate architectural, functional, lifecycle, and dependability information into a unified scenario-construction baseline, from which operational behavior was systematically derived and realized as system-level interaction models. The approach organizes scenario logic through lifecycle segmentation, semantic scenario specification, and reusable behavioral and dependability patterns, enabling traceable and consistent scenario development. The methodology was demonstrated using a Virtually Coupled Train Sets (VCTS) case study covering independent operation, virtual coupling, communication degradation, degraded operation, and emergency dissolution scenarios. The resulting models were evaluated with respect to constructability, traceability, reuse, architectural closure, dependability integration, semantic consistency, and controlled model growth. The proposed approach provides a structured process for transforming existing engineering knowledge into lifecycle-spanning behavioral scenarios while preserving reuse, traceability, and architectural consistency. Although the work does not address operational validation or certification, it establishes a methodological foundation for systematic scenario engineering and the integration of dependability behavior within MBSE-based development of safety-critical systems.