Developing a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) Land Domain Construct for Marine Corps Systems Command

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to consider four major areas for designing and analyzing an ontology, and conceptual data model (CDM) that can be applied across the Land Domain. Focus area 1 considers the importance of designing a generic (simple) ontology that comprehensively represents the system across the lifecycle. As such, an ontology that will serve as the foundation of the Land Domain will be described. Focus area 2 analyzes the relationships between entities defined within the ontology. System structure identifies the elements of the system that connect and interact with each other to achieve the system's purpose, and depicts how behavior will emerge within the system. A previously developed generic CDM will be analyzed, and further defined where needed, to serve as the basis of a common terminology and structure for the Land Domain. Focus area 3 considers the ontology as a foundation for an authoritative source of truth. This research will demonstrate the utility of having authoritative data within a defined structure, and validate the generic ontology and CDM using an example mission thread. Finally, focus area 4 will design a roadmap (modeling plan) depicting the recommended path to transition from document-based systems engineering to a true MBSE-based Land Domain.