A Practical Approach For Modelling Submarine Subsystem Architecture In SysML

This paper outlines a practical design approach for submarine subsystems using a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) methodology. At the core of this approach is a system model that provides a precise, consistent, traceable and integrated description of the submarine subsystem architecture. The system model is used to support the flow-down of requirements from the submarine missions to system, to subsystem and to component specifications. The system model is defined in the OMG Systems Modeling Language (OMG SysMLTM) and implemented in an established commercial SysML graphical modelling tool. The MBSE approach is based on a combination of industry best practice and the practical experiences of deploying MBSE within a submarine design team. This approach is being used by the design team at both whole-ofsubmarine and subsystem levels of design. This paper will elaborate on the application of MBSE to submarine subsystem architecture and focus on modelling artefacts that provide direct benefit during the early stages of achieving a balanced submarine design. This paper will discuss a number of important topics associated with building a system model that is intended to evolve from an initial concept design over the lifecycle of the submarine. Of particular interest is the reference architecture ‘scaffolding’ used to support capabilities such as variant modelling, and the integration of Failure Modes & Effects Analysis (FMEA) within the system model. Keywords-Submarine Design; System Architecture; ModelBased Systems Engineering; System Modelling; SysML