Model-Driven Engineering Method to Support the Formalization of Machine Learning using SysML

Methods: This work introduces a method supporting the collaborative definition of machine learning tasks by leveraging model-based engineering in the formalization of the systems modeling language SysML. The method supports the identification and integration of various data sources, the required definition of semantic connections between data attributes, and the definition of data processing steps within the machine learning support. Results: By consolidating the knowledge of domain and machine learning experts, a powerful tool to describe machine learning tasks by formalizing knowledge using the systems modeling language SysML is introduced. The method is evaluated based on two use cases, i.e., a smart weather system that allows to predict weather forecasts based on sensor data, and a waste prevention case for 3D printer filament that cancels the printing if the intended result cannot be achieved (image processing). Further, a user study is conducted to gather insights of potential users regarding perceived workload and usability of the elaborated method. Conclusion: Integrating machine learning-specific properties in systems engineering techniques allows non-data scientists to understand formalized knowledge and define specific aspects of a machine learning problem, document knowledge on the data, and to further support data scientists to use the formalized knowledge as input for an implementation using (semi-) automatic code generation. In this respect, this work contributes by consolidating knowledge from various domains and therefore, fosters the integration of machine learning in industry by involving several stakeholders.

Model-Driven Engineering for Artificial Intelligence -- A Systematic Literature Review

Objective: This study aims to investigate the existing body of knowledge in the field of Model-Driven Engineering MDE in support of AI (MDE4AI) to sharpen future research further and define the current state of the art. Method: We conducted a Systemic Literature Review (SLR), collecting papers from five major databases resulting in 703 candidate studies, eventually retaining 15 primary studies. Each primary study will be evaluated and discussed with respect to the adoption of (1) MDE principles and practices and (2) the phases of AI development support aligned with the stages of the CRISP-DM methodology. Results: The study's findings show that the pillar concepts of MDE (metamodel, concrete syntax and model transformation), are leveraged to define domain-specific languages (DSL) explicitly addressing AI concerns. Different MDE technologies are used, leveraging different language workbenches. The most prominent AI-related concerns are training and modeling of the AI algorithm, while minor emphasis is given to the time-consuming preparation of the data sets. Early project phases that support interdisciplinary communication of requirements, such as the CRISP-DM \textit{Business Understanding} phase, are rarely reflected. Conclusion: The study found that the use of MDE for AI is still in its early stages, and there is no single tool or method that is widely used. Additionally, current approaches tend to focus on specific stages of development rather than providing support for the entire development process. As a result, the study suggests several research directions to further improve the use of MDE for AI and to guide future research in this area.

Code Generation for Machine Learning using Model-Driven Engineering and SysML

Data-driven engineering refers to systematic data collection and processing using machine learning to improve engineering systems. Currently, the implementation of data-driven engineering relies on fundamental data science and software engineering skills. At the same time, model-based engineering is gaining relevance for the engineering of complex systems. In previous work, a model-based engineering approach integrating the formalization of machine learning tasks using the general-purpose modeling language SysML is presented. However, formalized machine learning tasks still require the implementation in a specialized programming languages like Python. Therefore, this work aims to facilitate the implementation of data-driven engineering in practice by extending the previous work of formalizing machine learning tasks by integrating model transformation to generate executable code. The method focuses on the modifiability and maintainability of the model transformation so that extensions and changes to the code generation can be integrated without requiring modifications to the code generator. The presented method is evaluated for feasibility in a case study to predict weather forecasts. Based thereon, quality attributes of model transformations are assessed and discussed. Results demonstrate the flexibility and the simplicity of the method reducing efforts for implementation. Further, the work builds a theoretical basis for standardizing data-driven engineering implementation in practice.