SCSC2003 Abstract S11339
A Comparative Analysis of UML and IDEF0 for Modeling and Simulation
A Comparative Analysis of UML and IDEF0 for Modeling and Simulation
Submitting Author: Mr. Brian Goldiez
Abstract:
The DoD has traditionally used the Standard Integration Definition for Function Modeling (IDEF0) for structured analysis of systems. IDEF0 has found its way into some DoD modeling and simulation research and development programs, typically as a tool used by the project team to ensure all of the design requirements have been addressed. This paper suggests and reports on a research initiative just starting at the University of Central Florida to study using the Unified Modeling Language (UML) as a replacement for IDEF0. UML has widespread use in the commercial software development community and a wide range of products supporting its implementation. This paper describes how UML can actually exceed IDEF0 by providing a comprehensive framework supporting analysis, design, and code generation. We also believe that with a few additions, UML can explicitly address the needs of real time and hardware in the loop simulations where the coupling between the software and hardware is muc
h closer than discrete event or constructive simulations where UML is more often seen. When properly coupled with newer software development methodologies, such as agile programming, a new development paradigm may emerge. The approach we are researching and prototyping is explained in the paper and could result in computer based simulators that are developed far more efficiently than current systems and give interested parties greater insight and participation in the development process. The research approach is a long term effort at UCF that will span several years.
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