A model-based systems engineering approach for the specification of test means for flight control computers
Hasti Jahanara · Spectrum Research Repository (Concordia University) · 2019
The aerospace industry is a competitive environment, in which aircraft system suppliers need to develop innovative, increasingly complex systems in ever-shorter time, serving various customer needs. Therefore, aircraft system suppliers need to improve all steps of their development process, from specification through testing. This thesis proposes a model-based system engineering (MBSE) approach to improve the specification process. As part of a collaborative project with Thales Avionics Canada, this thesis focuses on specifically on the development of test means for flight control computers (FCC). There are two challenges regarding development of test means: (1) tight timeline from the specification to the entry into service and (2) complexity of the architecture. Implementing an MBSE approach to the development of test means is promising to reduce the development time and to increase the quality. The ARCADIA/Capella MBSE framework is used to develop a generic, re-usable specification model for various flight control computer test means. To develop a generic model, various categories, types and component of FCC test means are analyzed. A variability management model is developed to manage efficiently common and optional feature and components. To do so, Pure::Variants, a product line engineering tool is used. The developed MBSE specification provides an overview of the test means entities, functions, interfaces and components. In summary, this thesis establishes a more efficient approach for the FCC test means development, potentially decreasing development time and increasing the competitiveness of the system developer.