An XML-Based Model Representation for Model Management, Transformation and Exchange

Modeling and simulation in engineering design has traditionally been domain-specific and tool-centered. Due to limitations in computer speed and simulation software, only limited problems could be analyzed thus resulting in simulation within only one domain using one specific tool. When products become more complex and integrated, it is necessary to study the interactions between sub-systems from different domains. The domains could be e.g. mechanics, electronics or hydraulics. Such integrated analysis is difficult to undertake since the tools used in each domain have their own representation of the models, only focusing on the specific task for that tool. Less often is the tool providing a general base for representing models. In the paper, a model representation based on the eXtensible Markup Language, XML, is proposed as a bridge for transformation between different model representations. It is at the same time a model repository that many tools can make use of. The dynamic behavior can be specified both implicitly and explicitly enabling transformations to specific simulation tools or standalone simulators. The content of the XML-document is presented and it is discussed how transformations can be accomplished in a straightforward fashion using standard tools for XML. Furthermore, the importance of that the model can be developed and extended throughout the whole product development process is discussed. This requires an extensible, model-centric environment, where it is possible to access the model with more than one tool. The presented XML-document for simulation models is designed with such a model-centric environment in mind. The main purpose of this paper is to introduce the reader to the tools and standards that are useful in creating a flexible solution for product modeling. By using the proposed concept, models can be created and then be accessed by arbitrary tools and at any point in the design process.Copyright © 2002 by ASME