Lecture 3: Fundamentals of Systems Engineering

Lecture 3: Fundamentals of Systems Engineering

• Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary engineering management process that creates/improves a system solution that fits customer needs and public acceptance.

Basic Concepts of Systems

• A system is an integrated group of people, products, and processes that achieve a need or objective.
• Systems can be described functionally (what it does, how well, under what conditions, and other systems involved).
• Systems can be described physically (components, appearance, manufacturing, integration).

Systems Engineering

• Systems engineering is an iterative application of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.
• Common themes include requirements engineering, a top-down approach, focusing on the life cycle, system optimization, balancing elements, and integration/specialization.
• Management is a key theme.

Systems Engineering Benefits

• Enhances cost savings across the entire system lifespan (Life Cycle Cost – LCC).
• Aids in reducing project timelines through clear user requirements definition, managing system trade-offs, and controlling changes.
• Minimizes technical risks through early identification and consistent monitoring.
• The Concept Development Stage is the aspect of systems engineering with the largest impact on the system life cycle.

Systems Engineering Method

• Systems engineering standards use iterative processes of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.
• Processes include: requirements analysis, functional definition, physical definition and design validation.
• The methodology initially focuses on system level and then repeats at finer detailed levels until complete.

Systems Engineering Management

• An effective management discipline addresses complexity and change, reducing risk in new or modified systems.
• Key responsibilities include:
  • Planning and managing activities (defining workflows, allocating resources, ensuring completion).
  • Leading and collaborating with teams (guiding, resolving conflicts, fostering communication).
  • Managing risks and issues (identifying potential problems, crafting mitigation, solutions).
  • Communicating about progress and challenges (keeping stakeholders informed).

Basic Problems Concerning Systems

• A system, like a manufacturing process, can be viewed as a transformation (T) of inputs (I) into outputs (O). T(I) = O.
• Key problems include system definition clarifying the transformation, inputs, and outputs; system operations (given inputs/transformation, predict outputs).
• The system inversion problem (given outputs/transformation, predict inputs)
• System identification (given inputs/outputs, determine the transformation).
• System optimization choosing inputs, outputs, or transformation (T) to optimize a given criteria (e.g., time, cost, profit).

Systems Engineering Process

• Systems engineering describes a structured framework for planning, developing, implementing, and running a complex system.
• Activities are not linear but cyclical, revisiting phases as new information is found.
• The entire system, rather than individual components, is considered for optimal integration and goals alignment.
• Technical aspects (e.g., design, testing) and management aspects (e.g., risk management, planning) are integrated.
• Healthcare system example showcases a tangible model of how this occurs.

Dive into the core principles of systems engineering in this quiz. Explore the definition of systems, their functionalities, and the critical processes involved in creating effective solutions that meet customer needs. Understand the benefits of a systematic approach in enhancing cost efficiency and overall management.