Case Study: Saab detects design errors earlier and reduces verification costs with Dassault Systèmes' CATIA and Dymola

New-generation aircraft benefits from model-based system engineering

SAAB, maker of the Gripen multi-role fighter, faced the challenge of developing highly integrated vehicle systems in a small airframe where weight, space, environmental loads and costly testing make late design changes prohibitive. To manage this complexity, SAAB adopted model-based systems engineering using Dassault Systemes tools—CATIA for 3D data and Dymola for multi‑engineering system modeling and simulation—to better understand system interactions and reduce development risk.

Dassault Systemes enabled SAAB to import CATIA geometry into Dymola for real‑time, multi‑domain simulations (for example, fuel‑tank sloshing and fuel‑sensor behavior under g‑loads) and to run fault scenarios such as piping dislocation during refueling. The solution let SAAB optimize tank and sensor placement, catch design errors far earlier than document‑based methods, and lower the costs and risks associated with flight‑test verification—significantly reducing the likelihood of late-stage fixes.

SAAB

Ingela Lind

Technical Fellow