Structured derivation of system modeling requirements for high-voltage battery systems in automotive applications

High-voltage (HV) battery systems are complex, safety critical products encompassing multi-level hierarchical architectures and tightly coupled electro-mechanical-thermal domains. Their development involves multiple interactions between components across scales, as well as strict circularity and safety constraints over the lifecycle. Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) offers a promising approach to manage this complexity by using formal models to integrate technical, safety, and circularity aspects throughout the design process. However, generic MBSE frameworks may not fully address the domain-specific needs of battery systems. This paper proposes a conceptual methodology to systematically define requirements for a domain-specific MBSE meta-model for HV battery systems. The methodology first identifies key modeling dimensions that a battery system model must encompass. Distinct characteristics of HV battery systems such as cell-module-pack hierarchies, and cross-domain physical couplings are analyzed to pinpoint specialized modeling needs. A literature-based review of current battery development methods highlights gaps in existing approaches and informs the requirement derivation. Building on these insights, a design space for the meta-model is defined, outlining the scope of modeling elements and relationships needed. Within this space, a set of structured modeling requirements is systematically derived. The resulting requirements provide a novel foundation for a battery-specific MBSE meta-model. By articulating these requirements, this work offers a clear guide for developing next-generation meta-models and address the complexities of HV battery system design.