An Architecture Modeling Framework for Distributed Automation Systems Using SysML and Semantic Web Technologies

The rising interdisciplinarity and complexity of the Distributed Automation Systems (DASs) require the systems to be modeled in an unambiguous and high-level abstract way for cross-discipline/stage communication and interoperability in the Model-Driven Development (MDD) lifecycle. The concept of the System Architecture Model in systems engineering has been adopted for this challenge. To support the creation and analysis of this model, a modeling framework with a modeling methodology, modeling language, knowledge base, and related toolkit is established based on SysML and Semantic Web Technologies. A modeling methodology which is the core of the framework for modeling the architecture of DASs is formally defined with domain-specificity, comprehensiveness, discipline-neutrality, and platform-independency. Based on it, the SysML-DAS modeling language is extended from SysML, and the System Architecture Ontology is built with the help of the Knowledge Extraction Tool. This ontology works as the knowledge base not only to provide a unified and unambiguous view of the system but also to support the automated accomplishment of tasks in the MDD process. As a typical task, the semantic correctness and integrity of the system architecture model can be assessed by the Knowledge Analysis Tool in this framework.