Eclipse Capella - An open-source MBSE tool for system and software architecture design based on the ARC ADIA method.
## Overview of Eclipse Capella
Eclipse Capella is an open-source Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tool designed for system and software architecture development. It is based on the ARC ADIA methodology and supports the V-cycle validation process. Capella enables multidisciplinary teams to collaborate on a unified platform, ensuring design consistency and integrity. It is widely adopted in industries like automotive electronics, aerospace, energy, and transportation.
## Industries Using Eclipse Capella
Eclipse Capella is extensively used in industries requiring complex system design, including:
- Automotive electronics (e.g., control systems)
- Aerospace (e.g., aircraft systems)
- Energy (e.g., power grid modeling)
- Transportation (e.g., rail systems)
Notable case studies include Rolls-Royce, ArianeGroup, and CNES.
## Overview of Eclipse Capella
Eclipse Capella offers the following features:
- **ARC ADIA Methodology**: Model-driven systems engineering approach.
- **V-Cycle Validation**: Supports verification and validation of complex systems.
- **Collaboration**: Enables team-based modeling with consistency checks.
- **Extensibility**: Customizable via plugins and integrations (e.g., requirements management, documentation generation).
- **Cross-Industry Adaptability**: Flexible for diverse engineering workflows.
## ARC ADIA Methodology in Capella
The ARC ADIA method is a model-based systems engineering framework integrated into Eclipse Capella. It covers all engineering phases, including:
- Requirements analysis
- System architecture design
- Validation and verification
It replaces traditional document-driven approaches with model-centric workflows, improving traceability and reducing errors.
## V-Cycle Validation in Capella
Eclipse Capella implements the V-cycle validation process by:
1. **Design Phase**: Creating system models (left side of the V).
2. **Verification Phase**: Validating models against requirements (bottom of the V).
3. **Integration Phase**: Testing subsystems iteratively (right side of the V).
This ensures correctness and reliability, especially for safety-critical systems like automotive controls or aerospace components.
## Eclipse Capella Resources
Official resources include:
- **Website**: [mbse-capella.org](https://mbse-capella.org/) (downloads, documentation, case studies).
- **Add-Ons**: [Open-Source and Commercial Plugins](https://mbse-capella.org/addons.html).
- **Training**: [Services Page](https://mbse-capella.org/services.html) for coaching and maintenance.
- **Case Studies**: Detailed PDFs (e.g., [Rolls-Royce](https://mbse-capella.org/resources/pdf/Case_Study_Rolls_Royce.pdf)).
## Eclipse Capella Case Studies
Documented case studies include:
- **Rolls-Royce**: Aerospace system design.
- **ArianeGroup**: Space launch vehicle development.
- **CNES**: French space agency projects.
These demonstrate Capella’s effectiveness in large-scale, safety-critical applications. Full case studies are available on the [official website](https://mbse-capella.org/case_studies.html).
## Open-Source Nature of Eclipse Capella
Yes, Eclipse Capella is open-source under the Eclipse Foundation’s PolarSys initiative. It allows:
- Free access to core modeling tools.
- Community-driven development and extensions.
Commercial add-ons and professional support are also available via third-party providers like Obeo.
## Requirements Management in Capella
Capella supports requirements management through:
- **Traceability**: Linking requirements to model elements.
- **Validation**: Ensuring designs meet specified requirements.
- **Documentation**: Auto-generating reports for audits.
Integrations with tools like DOORS or Polarion can further enhance this functionality.
## Support for Eclipse Capella
Users can access:
- **Community Support**: Forums and documentation.
- **Professional Services**: Training, coaching, and plugin development (e.g., [Obeo’s offerings](https://www.obeosoft.com/en/capella-professional-offer#integration)).
- **Books**: Guides on Arcadia and Capella methodologies (e.g., [Elsevier publications](https://www.elsevier.com/books/systems-architecture-modeling-with-the-arcadia-method/roques/978-1-78548-168-0)).
### Citation sources:
- [Eclipse Capella](https://mbse-capella.org) - Official URL
Updated: 2025-04-01