Software modelling in a measurement-based context: feedback from mechanical applications

A measurement-based context is a working environment where measurements, i.e. quantitative information from measured quantities, represent a fundamental component and are relevant for behaviours, decisions and scenario modelling. In this paper, it is presented the application of a RUP instance for measurement based context to a real industrial case, in order to validate its capability to reach methodological and practical improvements with reference to software development and to custom requirements. The studied test case is referred to a waste weighing process of a plant treating urban waste in an integrated cycle of waste management. This experimental validation of the approach shows that it is able to correctly manage the right meaning of measurements during the different software development stages, allowing innovative process solutions and cost-savings of implementation. The main methodological aspects impacting on these results have been also individuated.