Work

From Ground to Space: Construction and Application of a Three‐Dimensional Digital Collaborative Design Platform for Space Station Engineering

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT As aerospace engineering progresses toward greater complexity and system integration, traditional design and management methods are increasingly inadequate for meeting modern project demands. Digital twin technology and Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) have emerged as valuable tools for enhancing spacecraft design, manufacturing, and management efficiency. This study developed and implemented a three‐dimensional digital collaborative design platform for space station engineering, using case study analysis based on Chinese Space Station practices to explore the applications and implementation strategies of digital twin and MBSE technologies. The research findings demonstrate that the platform facilitates design‐manufacturing integration through unified data sources, as exemplified by parallel optimization during core module thermal testing; digital twin technology supports ground‐space synchronization and virtual–physical mapping through homologous models and telemetry data; and digital verification technology optimizes testing processes via automated software, enhancing system reliability. Additionally, successful platform implementation required systematic organizational preparation, including cross‐departmental coordination mechanisms, stratified personnel training systems, and gradual work‐mode transformation from document‐driven to model‐driven approaches. Technical implementation followed unified planning and phased deployment strategies, while comprehensive risk management systems addressed technical, data security, and operational challenges through pilot research validation and multi‐layered protection measures. This study provides both theoretical insights and practical guidance for digital transformation in aerospace engineering, offering empirical evidence and implementation frameworks for integrating emerging digital technologies in complex systems engineering contexts.

Source: Systems Engineering

DOI: 10.1002/sys.70033

Authors: Hongyi Zhang, Wei Wang, Yuejie Wen

Institutions: Tianjin University, China Academy of Space Technology

Language: English

Topic: Systems Engineering Methodologies and Applications

Subfield: Control and Systems Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: China Academy of Space Technology