Data consistency in product development – Bridging the Gap between MBSE and mCAD

Modern products — from vacuum robots to automobiles — are becoming increasingly complex. They combine mechanical, electrical, and software-based components that must be designed across different domains. In this context, model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is becoming increasingly important: It helps to capture requirements in a structured way and to model the entire system holistically at an early stage. At the same time, mechanical design (mCAD) remains a central component of product development, especially for the physical design of components.

In industrial practice, MBSE and mCAD often run in parallel – MBSE models and mCAD data are frequently not directly linked. Information is transferred manually, leading to inconsistencies and avoidable additional work.

This is exactly where this thesis comes in. The goal is to close the gap between MBSE and mCAD in order to increase data consistency and improve understanding between system development and design in the long term. You will work directly with developers from various business areas at Bosch and develop a concrete solution that will be implemented and evaluated in a prototype.

Task:

As part of this thesis, the interface between MBSE and mCAD will be examined in depth and a prototype solution developed. The tasks at a glance:

• Requirements analysis: Conducting interviews with employees from various Bosch business units (e.g. system development, design, project management) to identify specific information requirements and existing gaps in tool coupling.
• Conceptual design: Development of a concept for improving data consistency between MBSE models and mCAD data.
• Prototyping: Development of a functional prototype, e.g., in Python or JavaScript, to demonstrate the concept solution, such as an interactive viewer for linking MBSE models with CAD geometry data.
• Evaluation: Initial validation of the solution with experts from Bosch.

Your opportunities:

• Work with a leading global technology company: You will write your thesis in close cooperation with Bosch and gain direct insight into current challenges and practical solutions.
• Cooperative supervision: You will be supported by experienced experts at Bosch and receive academic supervision at KIT.
• Independent project work: You will have the opportunity to contribute to solving a practical problem, contribute your own ideas, and implement them in a functional prototype.
• Networking and career opportunities: Through close cooperation with Bosch, you will not only gain technical expertise, but also valuable contacts for your future career.
• Scientific added value: Your work will contribute to research at the interface between MBSE and mCAD – with potential for conference contributions or publications.

Your profile:

• Students of engineering, computer science, or economics
• Interest in model-based product development and digital engineering methods
• Initial experience with MBSE tools (e.g., Cameo, Enterprise Architect) or mCAD systems is desirable
• A basic affinity for programming and knowledge of Python or JavaScript are advantageous
• Analytical thinking, strong communication skills, and ability to work independently

Interested?

Then we look forward to receiving your short application – including a brief cover letter and your current transcript – or any questions you may have by email to: Lars Gesmann (IPEK) – lars.gesmann∂kit.edu or Constantin Mandel (Bosch) – Constantin.Mandel∂de.bosch.com.