SE4420 Modeling and Simulation in Acquisition

This course surveys the modeling and simulation (M&S) tools, techniques, and procedures used to support Department of Defense (DOD) acquisition.  Multiple M&S approaches and tools are presented with emphasis on the differences in application between model types. Upon completion, students will be able to identify a particular tool and apply it appropriately to support system acquisition and relate specific tools to the decision points that separate the acquisition phases. Students will be able to identify development, application, and analysis considerations related to M&S for a representative system.

Prerequisite

OS3180 or OS3111, and SE3100

Lecture Hours

3

Lab Hours

2

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe practical considerations and fundamentals of M&S, to include distinctions between live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) simulations and the role of humans in M&S development.

• Create MBSE compliant system architecture descriptions responsive to capability needs specifically tailored to support the system acquisition lifecycle. Particular emphasis will be given to the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) and its utility for support of acquisition and design issues, to include conformance to standards and interoperability.

• Understand and construct appropriate operational system models and simulations. Specific focus will be given to the differences between discrete event, agent based, and systems dynamics simulations.

• Conduct M&S assessments appropriate to support system acquisition. Statistical analysis approaches, to include optimization and robustness analysis will be used to conduct acquisition and design trades, compare alternative systems, and justify acquisition recommendations with appropriate analysis.