Proteus: A Framework for Enhancing Model-Based Systems Engineering Through 3D Visualization of System Models

As systems grow in size and complexity, the challenge of comprehensively maintaining and understanding their structure also increases. Utilizing a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach can be beneficial in addressing this issue. MBSE simplifies the system design process by using models to represent the system's structure and behavior, often represented through 2D UML/SySML diagrams. This paper explores the conversion of existing 2D system models into a 3D Modeling Format (3DMF) that accurately represents system structure and behavior. This conversion is foundational to the development of Proteus, a 3D visualization framework. Proteus is designed to enable the visualization of 2D system models from various modeling tools within a 3D environment, creating a live-link between these tools and the virtual reality (VR) space. This integration of Proteus into existing projects empowers system architects and developers to gain a more profound understanding and insight into their system models, going beyond the capabilities of conventional 2D model representations. Digital Twins technology is an emerging concept in the world of technology that produces virtual replicas that closely resemble physical objects. Within this realm, Proteus is designed to effortlessly incorporate 3D model visualization alongside these digital twins. This integration facilitates the use of 3D models in the design and testing stages of the systems being modeled, placing Proteus at the forefront of advancing Digital Twins technology. Proteus is designed with an abstract framework that not only facilitates its easy expansion but also leverages the benefits of incorporating 3D models into a virtual reality (VR) setting. This project enhances future developments by utilizing VR's immersive features to improve the exploration and understanding of system models, offering an immersive experience for system architects and developers.