Integrating Analytical Models with Descriptive System Models: Implementation of the OMG SyML Standard for the Tool-specific Case of MapleSim and MagicDraw

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is investing heavily in the development of an infrastructure for building system models using the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). An essential component is a transformation apparatus that permits diverse models to be integrated independently of their nature (e.g. declarative, analytical and statistical). This paper presents one useful case: the integration of analytical models expressed using the Modelica language. Modelica is an open standard, declarative, multi-domain modeling language that allows for complex dynamic systems to be modeled. Maplesoft's MapleSim is one software tool that supports the Modelica language. The tool-neutral specification for the transformation between the languages Modelica and SysML is defined in the SysML-Modelica transformation specification (SyML) standard published by the Object Management Group (OMG). As part of the development efforts, said specification has been implemented using the Query-View- Transformation Operational (QVTO) language. During the process, several critical changes to the current SyML standard were proposed. Furthermore, a number of current limitations related to MapleSim were identified. Despite these issues, a proof-of- concept transformation was successfully implemented. In conclusion, the integration of complex simulation models conforming to the Modelica language with SysML-based system models has shown great promise and is a highly useful tool to support the decision making process in design.