Defining systems
A key aspect of systems engineering that needs to be established as quickly as possible is that of the system itself. The first step in this chapter, therefore, will be to define the MBSE ontology with the concepts and terminology that relate to systems and interfaces. This will include identifying the key terminology, but also defining exactly what is meant by the following terms:
- System hierarchy: How many levels of hierarchy will be permitted to exist? Many people will think of the concept of a subsystem, but rarely think of any additional levels of abstraction that may exist below the subsystem. Therefore, the question needs to be addressed as to how many other levels exist below each subsystem.
- Interactions between system elements: What interactions will be permitted between similar system elements, for example, systems to systems, and subsystems to subsystems?
- Interaction between levels: What interactions will be permitted between levels of hierarchy...