Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE) Enterprise Architecture Framework (EAF) with Human System Integration (HSI) – A Smart-City (SC) Case Study

Abstract

This paper researches and analyzes how Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods can be applied to the construction industry in developing an Enterprise Architecture Framework (EAF) for long-term success of the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of emerging Smart-Cities (SC). A properly built EAF complements an organization’s Digital Transformation (DT) effort, enabling the construction of these human-focused urban developments that purport sustainable practices in response to environmental threats heightened by typical city infrastructure. The complexity of an SC is comparable to architecting a System-of-Systems (SoS) with the imperative need to identify and account for emergent properties between systems when making design decisions. From a Systems Engineering (SE) perspective, the re-usability of standardized Architecture Frameworks (AF) and libraries built within an MBSE environment will decrease rework, therefore reducing cost and improving reliability of similar projects in the future. This paper will (1) review existing literature related to MBSE EAF implementation and results within the construction industry with an emphasis on SCs, (2) propose a Reference Architecture (RA) that extends an existing MBSE framework with customizations for SC construction, and (3) architect and evaluate The Line in Saudi Arabia as a case study. This research will lay the foundation for conclusions regarding the efficacy of practicing MBSE in construction as the domain becomes increasingly interconnected to “smarter” applications that require additional considerations, constraints, and technologies.

Keywords: MBSE, smart-city, enterprise architecture

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005348