Modularized Simulation to Manage Complex Systems Throughout the Lifetime

In a time where technological and societal challenges demand rapid innovation, there is a growing need for rapid design of novel, complex systems both in industry and society at large. Managing the underlying challenges and arriving at systems of suitable quality in acceptable time frames, while managing risks and uncertainties requires a structured approach using simulation modelling, i.e. testing, checking, failing and optimizing a digital system is much cheaper and less risky than doing the same on a real system.
We argue that this approach must include modular, lifecycle-spanning and assured simulation models that provide decision support across different phases of the system lifecycle. These challenges are discussed in the paper and solutions are presented. The paper concludes that simulation models are essential for managing the complexity of modern systems. Organizations can build Digital Twins that provide decision support across all lifecycle phases through the application of modularization, co-simulation, different simulation approaches, surrogate modelling, and assurance frameworks. These approaches enable stakeholders to collaborate effectively, reduce risks, optimize time to market and achieve more efficient and reliable operations in complex systems. The paper discusses these elements in detail, proposes solutions, provides examples from our recent work and suggests an outlook into the near future.

Keywords: Simulation, Assurance, Complex systems, Novel systems, Lifecycle, Modularization.