SET Academy

This course is an introduction to systems engineering (SE) and the principles of systems definition, development, and maintenance. Topics include basic understanding of systems, SE objectives, terminology and working methodology, the relationships between SE and other disciplines, the basic elements of the product life cycle, the use of modeling, and the influence of programmatic considerations. Developing an understanding of the SE methodology is emphasized. Teamwork and cooperative effort concepts are highlighted. 

Second in the three-course systems modeling sequence, this course increases knowledge of systems modeling concepts and focuses on the more advanced tools necessary to generate an SE model. Students discuss the digital environment and learn how to interconnect the nine diagram types to create a fully representative model. Model documentation and the team approach to project management and execution are emphasized. 

This course builds on prior coursework and experience in systems modeling and database design/management. It introduces students to disparate model and data types, methods to gather data from multiple sources, and processes to transform data for incorporation into SE models. Emphasis is placed on modeling programs, data structures, languages, and platforms commonly used in specific industries.

First, in the three-course systems modeling sequence, this course introduces the concept of systems modeling. The course focuses on the tools necessary to generate an SE model representative of a given system. The nine diagram types utilized in modeling and their functionalities are emphasized. 

Third in the three-course systems modeling sequence, this course further promotes systems modeling comprehension. Students prepare to present models to industry management and convey important metrics obtained from the model. Methods of determining model scope and planning content are emphasized. 

This course includes a real-world project in support of an industry partner. Working as a team, students interact with the customer and develop an understanding of the objectives, deliverables, and the proposed or existing system. Students evaluate available documentation and existing models to determine a project schedule and work breakdown structure. Based on customer input, evaluation of the system, and recognition of the objectives of the project, students determine the scope and focus of the needed model.  The student team designs, documents, builds, tests, and utilizes a realistic model for that system. Students also identify maturity paths for that model and opportunities to connect to other digital tools. 

Course Description: Model-based systems engineering is the use of digital applications to perform systems engineering tasks more efficiently, including the characterization of the system of systems under design and the interconnectivity of data sources (digital tools, databases, applications) to model a physical or software system across its lifecycle. Because MBSE is comprehensive but modular, it can solve problems at any level of design and any program lifecycle phase. When applied appropriately, MBSE significantly improves project scope, cost, and schedule while increasing quality across the entire project lifecycle.

Course Objectives: 

• Learn model-based systems engineering basics and limitations 
• Provide program managers and technical decision-makers with basic understanding of what MBSE is/is not, as well as what it can and can’t do 
• Address considerations for making the decision to implement MBSE for a given project 
• Provide systems engineering stakeholders and potential modelers with practical understanding of how to effectively implement aspects of MBSE 
• Provide insight on the value proposition for MBSE 
• Understand how to implement select aspects of MBSE, using examples and models 

Exit criteria: Understand a range of MBSE implementation approaches for your organization 

As a result of this course, participants will be able to:

• Given a real system, formulate it using model-based systems engineering approaches

• Given a model, provide textual descriptions of the system purpose, functions, and structure through model analysis and inspection

• Understand the modeling process

• Understand the structure and behavior of the model

• Understand the techniques that could be used to integrate and generate models

• Be a productive contributor to systems engineering projects that use SysML-based models

MBSE 500 is anticipated to be offered over 12 weeks, meeting twice each week and including significant independent, as well as classroom work. Prepares students for modeling certificate which is also in-progress/under development.

Course Description: Systems engineering principles and best practices fundamentally rely on systems modeling across the entire product life cycle. This course expands on the model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approaches established in the MBSE201 course to demonstrate model interaction/behaviors across the physical/digital systems engineering life cycle of requirements, design, analysis, verification, and validation. Examples from industry will illustrate how to effectively build and operate common model formats to meet key cost, schedule, and technical constraints. A basic SysML^® model will be developed in parallel during class instruction to provide a ready reference for building future models. While primarily SysML focused, examples of using alternative modeling tools (e.g., MapleMBSE, DOORS NG, unique application programming interfaces) will be provided, as well. Completion of this course is intended to provide a 70 percent confidence level in readiness to take the OCSPM Modeler 1 Certification Examination.

Course Objectives:

• Learn MBSE basics and limitations
• Learn to build and control model formats
• Help prepare students for OCSMP Modeler 1 Certification Examination