An analysis of the literature on SysML characteristics

Abstract

The growing complexity of modern systems, particularly those that integrate hardware and software across multiple domains, has intensified the need for effective modelling approaches in Systems Engineering. Since its introduction by the Object Management Group (OMG), the Systems Modelling Language (SysML) has been proposed as a standardised language to support the specification, analysis, design, and verification of complex systems. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of SysML, emphasising its practical application in industrial contexts and its role in addressing engineering challenges over the course of nearly two decades. This study is based on a Systematic Literature Review that evaluates the main characteristics of SysML as defined by the OMG. The review investigates how the language is applied at different stages of the system’s development life cycle and supports multiple architectural views. In addition to theoretical analysis, the study discusses a practical application of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) in the automotive domain, focusing on an embedded window control system. A case study demonstrates how SysML and Unified Modeling Language (UML) can be applied together to model system components and their interactions in a structured and consistent manner. The results highlight that the combined use of SysML and UML is widely adopted in system design, development, and analysis, especially in scenarios that require integrated modelling of software and hardware components. Key benefits include greater architectural consistency, improved traceability, enhanced communication between stakeholders, and support for the development of complex embedded systems. Based on the evidence collected, the study concludes by proposing possible improvements to SysML, aiming to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of model-based systems modelling, thus contributing to both academic research and professional practice in industry and encouraging the combined use of SysML and UML in Systems Engineering.