Mentor Graphics’ Smith: Take platform-level perspective to system and component engineering

EVERETT, Wa., 24 April 2014. “It is increasingly important to take a platform-level perspective when it comes to system and component design,” says Dr. Nick Smith, business development director, Integrated Electrical Systems Division at Mentor Graphics. “Platform-level engineering considers the complete challenge and complete platform, be it a satellite or military aircraft. Absence of platform-level view impairs integration.”

Modern technologies are making this much easier, enabling tools to dynamically and seamlessly share data. And, because they are standards-based, tools can work and be linked together, Dr. Smith adds.

Digital continuity is a core enabler, delivering an unbroken data flow within domains and between domains, as is advanced automation with things like data repurposing and integrated verification, Dr. Smith says.

“We face technical, regulatory, and business challenges; we need to do more. It takes visionary leadership to make the transformation [to platform-level engineering] happen and realize the benefits,” concludes Dr. Smith, who urges technology leaders to “grasp the opportunity to accomplish and benefit from model-based engineering.”