A concept for a digital thread based on the connection of system models and specific models

This paper describes the concept of a method that uses an existing system model to select the most suitable component or specific model for inclusion. The term model is understood to encompass models that are used during the development of systems that: have a certain degree of formalism, are digitizable, connectable and processable. The method describes how specific models that are required can be identified and how they could be connected. The approach is explained using a well-understood example taken from the development of automotive powertrains. After stating current challenges and problems in the development of complex systems in the automotive domain, a system cube is used as a structuring principle for models that describe certain system aspects such as structure and behavior. This concept acts as a starting point for the selection of the most suitable specific models allocated to system models based on the functional description of the system. Finally, the contribution of this research to the real-ization of a digital thread is discussed and future research topics are outlined.