  This paper comprises a SysML-based approach to support the model-driven
engineering (MDE) of Manufacturing Automation Software Projects (MASP). The
Systems Modeling Language (SysML) is adapted to define the SysML-AT (SysML for
automation), a specialized language profile that covers (non-)functional
requirements, corresponding software applications and properties of proprietary
hardware components. Furthermore, SysML-AT supports an automated software
generation for run-time environments conforming to IEC 61131-3. A prototypical
tool support was realized for adapted SysML Parametric Diagrams (PD) inside an
industrial automation software development tool. Coupling the model editor and
online data from the provided run-time environment enables direct debugging
inside the model. The approach was evaluated by several case studies and
additional usability experiments. With the latter, the suitability of the MDE
approach for future users was proven.
