Seeing the bigger picture with the Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) - Offshore Wind to Hydrogen Enterprise

MBSE;UAF;System of Systems;SoS;Offshore Wind;Green Hydrogen;Wind Power;Sustainable;Simulation

Offshore wind to hydrogen generation and distribution represents a ground-breaking enterprise, intricately weaving together multiple independent systems to mitigate global challenges related to climate change and energy security. This complex yet vital endeavour is not merely a response to the urgent need for clean, renewable energy but also a multifaceted exploration fraught with technical, economic, and social barriers. As such, a holistic and systemic approach to design and analysis becomes not only preferable but imperative.

This presentation delves into the utilization of the Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) to model an enterprise strategically incorporating offshore wind and hydrogen systems. UAF, a standardized representation of enterprise architecture through a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach, stands as a robust tool for evaluating various design choices and scenarios within the offshore wind to hydrogen enterprise. The UAF model embraces diverse views, capturing strategic vision, operational processes, resources, services, projects, and security controls.

The system of systems within this enterprise consists of offshore wind farms, hydrogen production through to hydrogen storage along with integration to the power grid. Leveraging offshore wind, a renewable energy source, this enterprise aspires to produce green hydrogen, contributing significantly to the decarbonization of various sectors. This system of systems is not without its set of challenges, ranging from determining optimal configurations for systems to grappling with the variable and intermittent nature of offshore wind, in tandem with the demand and supply of hydrogen. The challenges extend to the enterprise too; needing to ensure the economic feasibility within an unknown market, along with conducting comprehensive environmental and social impact assessments and engaging with a wide variety of stakeholders to garner public acceptance and support.

Addressing these multifaceted challenges necessitates not only technical prowess but also multidisciplinary research and innovation, demanding collaboration across industries, academia, government, and society. While the enterprise holds promise as a key solution in achieving net-zero emissions, it must traverse barriers and risks that may impede its development and deployment.

By skilfully utilizing UAF, the presentation seeks to propel the knowledge and practice in the realm of the energy industry, illustrating how this framework empowers systems engineers to comprehend the complexity of their challenges on a grand scale. The presentation endeavours to equip the audience with an understanding of the Offshore Wind to Hydrogen enterprise, underscoring the significance of Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) in addressing its challenges and steering sustainable energy solutions.

The UAF model is used in conjunction with Trade Analysis Simulation (TAS) and Monte Carlo simulation to help evaluate design alternatives, ensure coherence and consistency, and paving the way for future applications in concrete energy enterprise case studies.

To enhance the learning experience, the presentation will include a live demonstration of the tools and techniques discussed, providing attendees with a first-hand insight into the practical application of UAF, MBSE, TAS, and Monte Carlo simulation.

The presentation will be given by Joseph Hughes and Matti Koskipää, both esteemed experts at Dassault Systèmes. Joseph, an INCOSE Certified Systems Engineering Professional, leverages over a decade of experience as an MBSE Senior Specialist in the UK, specializing in SysML and UAF. With a background in Computing and Electronics, Joseph's global impact spans high-speed rail and renewable energy projects, embodying a commitment to excellence in shaping the future of systems engineering. Meanwhile, Matti, with over 15 years at Dassault Systèmes, manages the Model-Based Systems Engineering expert team, showcasing versatility across various industries and processes. His influential role in spreading MBSE knowledge includes serving as a visiting lecturer at Oulu University. Together, Joseph and Matti bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the forefront of the presentation, offering a comprehensive view of advancements in Model-Based Systems Engineering.