System-of-systems (SoS) architecture is crucial in managing complex and interconnected systems. However, the description and modeling of SoS architecture pose significant challenges and require a structured and organized approach. In this study, a metamodel for SoS architecture that considers both structural and behavioral perspectives is defined. The metamodel is then mapped to ontologies that are enhanced with a flow-based extension to characterize architecture views. On this basis, an SoS capability ontology (SoSCO) and an SoS operational ontology (SoSOO) are built with factors, relationships, and flows. A four-step architecture process for developing capabilities and a five-step architecture process for operational modeling are provided based on the ontologies. The proposed approach is applied in a search and rescue case study, demonstrating its ability to improve operability in the early design stage. The process is implemented using the Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) so that various stakeholders and engineers can better understand and develop an SoS.
A system of systems (SoS) composes a set of independent constituent systems (CSs), where the degree of authority to control the independence of CSs varies, depending on different SoS types. Key researchers describe four SoS types with descending levels of central authority: directed, acknowledged, collaborative and virtual. Although the definitions have been recognized in SoS engineering, what is challenging is the difficulty of translating these definitions into models and simulation environments. Thus, we provide a goal-based method including a mathematical baseline to translate these definitions into more effective agent-based modeling and simulations. First, we construct the theoretical models of CS and SoS. Based on the theoretical models, we analyze the degree of authority influenced by SoS characteristics. Next, we propose a definition of SoS types by quantitatively explaining the degree of authority. Finally, we recognize the differences between acknowledged SoS and collaborative SoS using a migrating waterfowl flock by an agentbased model (ABM) simulation. This paper contributes to the SoS body of knowledge by increasing our understanding of the degree of authority in an SoS, so we may identify suitable SoS types to achieve SoS goals by modeling and simulation.
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