An approach to model formulation for systems of systems

This work presents and reviews the use of multimethodologies (specifically methodology enhancement) as a framework for model formulation of systems of systems. Multimethodologies have been considered as a valid instrument to intervene complex systems; but systems of systems (SoS) problems are a new generation of complex problems that are challenging the traditional practice of systems engineering (SE). SoS has special characteristics that limit the potentiality of multimethodologies, especially in the model formulation and system design phases; this paper points out some of those limitations through the review of a practical case: the model formulation for a port security system. Finally, some concluding remarks about the need for a more robust approach to accomplish the SoSE efforts are presented.