1. Development of Model-Based Systems Engineering at Goddard Space Flight Center
Edward Amatucci (592) Engineering Walter Diaz , Capitol Technology University
Frank Coleman (500) & Darryl Lakins (592) Sophia Nguyen, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
Abstract
This project is focused on developing a better
understanding of how Systems Engineering processes
may follow a model-based approach (vs. a document-
centric approach) to help improve efficiencies and/or
reducing risks.
The systems engineers at the NASA Goddard Space
Flight Center currently follow a document-centric
approach rather than a model-based approach. In
collaboration with the Department of Defense(DoD), a
series of surveys were completed in order to compare
the two tools for developing models (Magic Draw and
Innoslate). The study compared the pros and cons of
switching to a model-based systems approach and
concluded which system was best suited for the NASA
Goddard Space Flight Center. After evaluating the
overall uses of the software, the ultimate goal was to
share the knowledge and teach the systems engineers
in Code 592 on how to utilize these valuable MBSE
tools. This will be the beginning stages of NASA
Goddard Space Flight Center emerging from a
document-centric approach to a model-based method
of development. Skills developed for this work
included modeling tool capabilities such as Magic
Draw and Innoslate.
Introduction & Background
The document-centric approach has been practiced
by systems engineers for decades. Now, Model Based
Systems Engineering is beginning to emerge and
replace this old method to influence the future
practice of systems engineering. The document-
centric approach has led to lack of efficiencies and
caused many setbacks in mission design. Here at
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Code 592,
Instruments and Payloads Systems Engineering
Branch, systems engineers are moving towards using
modeling software tools, such as: MagicDraw and
Innoslate. Each has its own unique attributes.
MBSE can enhance the ability to manage system
complexity, improve collaboration among
stakeholders, improve product quality, and reduce
risk. However, the process of evolving into MBSE
does have its difficulties such as, integration across
the entire organization, limitation of the model
capabilities, and lack of MBSE proficient skills.
Methods / Approach Discussion & Conclusion
• Conducted a literature review of model-based
engineering tools in collaboration with the Department
of Defense (DoD)
• Became familiar with the functionality of
Innoslate & Magic Draw
• Developed & conducted an evaluation
on tools against the developed
characteristics
• Prepared a final briefing to summarize findings and
recommendations
References
• Systems Engineering Seminar – “Faster, Better,
Cheaper” by David Long, President of International
Council on Systems Engineering
• Network Integration Management Office (NIMO)
http://esc.gsfc.nasa.gov/space-
communications/nimo.html
• Model-Based Systems Engineering(MBSE) Applied
to Radio Aurora Explorer(RAX) Cubesat Mission
Operational Scenarios – Chris Delp, Jet Propulsion
Lab
“Faster,Better
Cheapter” –
David Long
Magic Draw – Radio
Aurora Explorer Link
Budget
Innoslate – NIMO
Activity Diagram
Innoslate vs. MagicDraw
• Innoslate is useful for creating simple models
• Innoslate has a feature that allows users to chat within
the model to have instant communication &
collaboration
• Innoslate is easier to use as it has been designed to be
intuitive
• Innoslate is run based off of Google’s app engine and
is stored on the cloud
• It also has a enterprise version that can scale larger
projects
• Innoslate has good simulation capabilities, i.e Monte
Carlo simulator
• However Innoslate can be limited in executing
complex models
• Innoslate does not have parametric modeling
capabilities
• MagicDraw is useful for creating complex system
models
• MagicDraw has parametric capabilities that allows
mathematical calculations
• MagicDraw is easy to learn for those who have an
object oriented background
• MagicDraw currently in use at other NASA Centers