Graphical domain-specific languages (DSLs) often result in tool-specific, non-reusable implementations due to the lack of standardized specification for their visual (concrete) syntax. This paper presents the MOF-based Profile Generator (MOPRO), a prototype that transforms a formally specified metamodel into a UML Profile implementation, enabling direct use of the DSL in the modeling tool Enterprise Architect. The specification builds on our previous work, which extended the MOF standard with a machine-readable definition of the concrete syntax model (CSM), but had not yet demonstrated its practical interpretability. MOPRO addresses this gap and is evaluated using a security DSL that shares structural similarities with the RAMI 4.0 Toolbox—whose evolution has required time-consuming manual DSL updates. The results confirm that a single standardized specification is sufficient to automate DSL implementation. While currently tailored to Enterprise Architect, the transformation process is adaptable to other tools, providing a foundation for reusable, consistent, and less error-prone DSL development across platforms.

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) has gained widespread recognition as a transformative approach for managing complexity in modern systems development. While its adoption has accelerated in domains such as aerospace and defense, the manufacturing sector has been slower to adopt MBSE practices. Literature findings indicate that MBSE offers many perceived advantages, including improved communication, enhanced traceability, and early validation. However, its adoption is often hindered by tool integration issues, organizational resistance, insufficient training, and uncertain return on investment. This paper focuses on these benefits and challenges, with a particular focus on the manufacturing domain. Furthermore, the adoption process itself is examined, as it poses many challenges and significantly influences the long-term success of MBSE initiatives. By conducting a structured literature review, this study aims to provide an overview of the adoption process, as well as the benefits and challenges associated with MBSE implementation in manufacturing companies. The resulting insights are intended to support more informed, evidence-based decisions regarding MBSE adoption in the manufacturing sector.

As developing current or future industrial systems becomes increasingly complex, new methods for understandably structuring those systems need to arise. The Reference Architectural Model Industrie 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) provides a framework for describing intermingled industrial applications in the context of Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPSs). However, although RAMI 4.0 has been standardized for almost a decade, it still lacks actual industrial applications. Recent use cases have shown that the three-dimensional layout might be oversimplified for describing system architectures. Specifically, problems with the so-called live-cycle axis, which has shown significant shortcomings in capturing the dynamics of industrial processes, need to be tackled. This paper provides an analysis of RAMI 4.0 and an assessment of shortcomings that hinder its applicability. It presents alternative approaches that address these limitations by proposing modifications or replacements of parts of RAMI 4.0. Based on the paper's insights, we provide the research agenda for engineering future manufacturing systems, considering it a base for follow-up projects to ensure industrial readiness.

Highly connected cyber-physical systems and the increasing popularity of the Plug-and-Work approach contribute to rising system complexity. This rise in complexity often hinders manageability and prevents companies from adapting to new technologies. In response, the Reference Architecture Model Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) is introduced as a suitable framework for visualizing interconnections within Industry 4.0 systems and for providing different stakeholder perspectives. While RAMI 4.0 and model-based systems engineering (MBSE) have proven to be effective in managing system complexity, the manual process of resource selection based on product or process requirements, persists. To overcome this challenge, this research extends the RAMI 4.0 domain-specific language (DSL) to enable the mod-eling of resource functionality as capabilities and skills, and to connect those elements to requirements. A capability diagram is incorporated into RAMI 4.0, featuring modeling elements inspired by the Capability-Skill-Service (CSS) model, introduced by Platform Industry 4.0. This paper presents the implementation of the functionality aspects in RAMI 4.0 as well as a proof-of- concept application using the newly introduced elements, while concurrently evaluating the CSS reference model.