A systems-theoretic approach to early concept development

The so-called “ilities” of a system—such as safety, interoperability, and efficiency—should be designed into systems from their very conception, which can be achieved by integrating more powerful analysis techniques into the general systems engineering process. The primary barrier to achieving this objective is the lack of effectiveness of the existing analytical tools during early concept development. This paper introduces a new technique, which is based on general systems theory and hierarchical control theory, that can capture behaviors that are prevalent in complex human- and software-intensive systems. This paper presents a new technique that supports rigorous, systematic analysis of future concepts in order to identify potentially adverse scenarios and undocumented assumptions that may inhibit mission objectives. Furthermore, these techniques are intended to address issues associated with the interaction, integration, and coordination of agents with heterogeneous decision-making capability and qualities, varying levels of automation, and changing roles of human operators.

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