AI-SoS: A Strategic Framework for Integrating Artificial Intelligence in System of Systems

In the contemporary engineering landscape, the complexity and interconnectivity of systems have given rise to the concept of Systems of Systems (SoS), wherein multiple independent systems collaborate to achieve a higher-order functionality not possible by any single component system alone. The engineering of SoS, or System of Systems Engineering (SoSE), presents unique challenges that necessitate novel approaches for design, integration, and management for connecting systems into SoS. Additionally, SoS capabilities can be further leveraged using the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which has yet to be fully explored. This paper introduces an innovative framework leveraging AI to address the complex demands of SoSE. The framework itself has been developed using a systematic domain analysis method. The framework incorporates a metamodel, a Matrix Chart for aligning AI technologies with specific SoS capabilities, and a systematic method for their application across different stages of the SoS lifecycle. To validate our framework, we employ a multi-case study methodology, examining diverse SoS examples across industries. These case studies demonstrate the practicality and impact of the presented proposed AI-driven approach in real-world SoSE challenges. The framework is used to depict a useful map to pave the way for further research and innovations.