Date of Award
2017
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
Department
Industrial and Systems Engineering and Engineering Management
Committee Chair
Dale Thomas
Committee Member
Gary L. Eldridge
Committee Member
Phillip Farrington
Committee Member
Sherri Messimer
Subject(s)
SysML (Computer science), System design., Sociotechnical systems.
Abstract
In modern design of complex systems, there is lack of consideration of social elements in Socio-Technical Systems. The Human Mental Model is a vital part of multidisciplinary system design, and can contribute to the potential for system failure when not considered during the design phase. This thesis will examine the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) viewpoints and views to determine whether they illustrate elements of human mental models, and increase communication between individuals holding different perspectives. Two models were created in SysML, the first comparing SysML to mental model graphs, and the second was the Lynx X-ray Observatory, a project in concept development at NASA. This research discovered viewpoints and views relate favorably with aspects of mental model. It was also found that illustrating Lynx viewpoints and views was a valuable aid in eliciting concerns and desires of stakeholders, leading to a project more in line with desires of the stakeholders.
Recommended Citation
Patterson, Elizabeth Anne, "Utilizing SysML viewpoints to improve understanding and communication of human mental models within system design teams" (2017). Theses. 222.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-theses/222