Glossary Modeling foundations
What is SysML v2?
SysML v2 is the second major version of OMG's Systems Modeling Language, a standard for writing system models as text or diagrams.
Also called Systems Modeling Language v2.
SysML v2
SysML v2 is the second major version of the Systems Modeling Language, standardized by the Object Management Group (OMG). SysML v1 was defined as a profile of UML; v2 is built on its own foundation, the Kernel Modeling Language (KerML), and has both a textual and a graphical notation. It also defines a standard API, so tools can create, query and exchange models in a common way.
Why it matters
A standard language gives a model a precise meaning that doesn't depend on one tool. That matters when a model must pass between organizations, outlive a tool choice or meet a customer's requirement. The textual notation also lets models be versioned and compared like source code.
How it goes wrong
- Expecting a modeling language to settle unclear engineering thinking
- Adopting a formal modeling stack before the architecture is stable enough to justify it
- Learning the notation before deciding what questions the model must answer
In Cairn
Cairn does not read or write SysML, v1 or v2, and has none of the standard's diagram types. Its model is its own: nodes, requirements, interfaces with signals, states and transitions, use cases, verifications and trace links. Many of these have counterparts in SysML, but there is no conversion between them. The model exports as JSON, Markdown and CSV, which you can read into other tools with your own scripts.
Questions
- Does Cairn read or write SysML v2?
- No. Cairn's model is its own. It exports as JSON, Markdown and CSV, which you can read into other tools with your own scripts.
- Do I need to know SysML to use Cairn?
- No. Cairn uses plain terms such as parts, requirements, interfaces and states, and a new project can start from an interview in plain words.
See it on your own system.
Describe what you are building and Cairn interviews you, then builds the first model with you.