Multi-level decision-based system architecting

Abstract

Decision-based system architecting represents a complex system as a set of interconnected decisions that a .system architect can make about the trade space. Modeling a system using decision-based frameworks allows the architect to not only enumerate and evaluate feasible architectures, but also, to gain insight into how influential each decision is to the overall system. A single-level decision-based model allows an architect to examine the decisions and architectural combinations at a single level of abstraction of the architecture. Through linking of multiple single-level models, each focusing at a different level of abstraction of the architecture, the system architect can gain insight into the decisions and options for system, element, and component designs while maintaining the validity of the decision support data provided by the models. Single and multi-level decision based system architecting is applied to multiple future human spaceflight projects. The architecture of the Lunar Surface System and the mission design for a human Near Earth Object (NEO) mission are examined through single-level models. The habitat design for potential NEO missions is further examined through the application of multi-level decision-based system architecting techniques.