A Reverse-MBSE Approach to Legacy Systems: CODIS as a Case Study

This paper uses the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) as a case study to demonstrate the application of reverse engineering with MBSE for analysis of legacy system architectures. CODIS functions as a distributed system of systems with a hierarchical setup that includes local, state, and national databases for storing and comparing DNA profiles. While it plays a crucial role in law enforcement, CODIS relies on legacy technology that is often viewed as antiquated. We apply a "reverse-MBSE"methodology to CODIS to identify and model the system's operational flows, functional architecture, logical architecture, system specification, and potential risks. The study has implications for transforming legacy systems into more understandable digital models for improved maintenance, system integration, and evolution.