Research groups are challenged with ensuring that their activities are appropriately aligned to evolving strategic intent. This paper aims to address that challenge by describing a systematic approach, using Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE) techniques, to bridge the gap between strategic intent and exploratory research activities such as Modelling and Simulation, and experimental prototyping.
As strategic intent evolves, so too should the research activities. However, it is often the case that as strategic intent evolves, areas of research become unaligned. Further, there exists updated strategic intent that is not supported by research or technology development activities.
To maintain alignment with strategic intent, this paper proposes an approach leveraging model-based systems engineering (MBSE) techniques.
To demonstrate the approach, this paper presents a case study where a descriptive model was developed within CATIA Magic to:
The model was then used to capture operational-level analysis and subsequent system need derivation. The intent of this was to provide a more robust trace from strategic intent through to technology development by allowing development efforts, such as producing prototype systems, to be driven by operational analysis.
The results from gathered from experimentation could then be used to further refine system needs and inform future prototyping/development activities. In doing so, experimental prototyping was more aligned to operational analysis and hence strategic intent throughout the entire research program duration.