A Sandpit for Systems Engineering and Systems Integration education and research

This paper describes the Microcosm programme established by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation and University of South Australia that seeks to provide a facility to explore systems integration issues, accelerate the formation of systems engineering competencies, and conduct research into model-based systems engineering. Firstly, the paper outlines the design drivers and long term goals of the programme. This is followed by a description of the Stage One implementation that covers the high-level architecture, system design, and implementation. The utility of the Microcosm Sandpit has been successfully demonstrated through a real-time intruder detection and engagement scenario using real and simulated autonomous robot vehicles.