Applying the engineering systems multiple-domain matrix framework to nanosatellite space systems

Abstract

The nanosatellite industry is expanding rapidly, as academic and private institutions develop new technologies for experimentation on orbit. These "CubeSats" are resource constrained, complex socio-technical systems that have complicated interdependencies across multiple domains. To improve understanding and reduce ambiguity, systems engineers apply a variety of modeling frameworks to model system behavior. Introduced in 2007, the Engineering Systems Multiple- Domain Matrix (ES-MDM) framework addresses the interdependencies of a complex engineering system, such as a CubeSat, across five domains: environmental, social, functional, technical and process. Using the Free-space Lasercom and Radiation Experiment (FLARE) CubeSat constellation as an example engineering system case, the ES-MDM is constructed using the qualitative knowledge construction framework to model and analyze the system drivers, stakeholders, objectives, function, objects and processes of the system. The primary objective of this analysis is to provide a structured systems design approach for nanosatellite development that encompasses the entire system holistically. The second objective is to analyze the interactions and interdependencies within a highly-constrained system and determine key design nodes that are critical to system flexibility. The third objective is to evaluate the ability of the ES-MDM methodology to analyze a highly-constrained system. The fourth objective of thesis is to provide recommendations for future work to improve the ESMDM framework and the s7102 Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Integrated Design and Management Program.