Showing papers on "System of systems engineering published in 1982"

Principles of Engineering

Abstract: Provides an introduction to the engineering profession, and the methods engineers apply in engineering practice. Emphasizes the modern tools of engineering analysis and design, including problem solving methods, digital computing, computer aided design, experiments, and testing. Also discusses communication and constraints on engineering practice in relation to economics, law, government, and management.

Sign-creation and man-sign engineering

Abstract: Sign-creation usually takes place by nature — a moment here, another notch there, in a way that is spontaneous and unplanned. Often enough sign-creation takes place by art, when we stay within the orbit of trying to give fresh, extended, or more precise form to whatever happens to be the pressing problem at hand. Almost never, however, do we make a systematic study of the sign-creation process itself, in order by design to make us better able to engage in the practice of sign-creation. When this highly prized and important activity takes place, we have sign-creation by science. I call it man-sign engineering. We take it for granted that there are many kinds of engineering: mechanical, civil, electrical, mining, and so forth. We also take it for granted that new kinds of engineering are still being developed. Another kind, for example, was developed during and right after World War II. It is called man-machine engineering. The goal here is that, when we design a machine, we will do so in such a way that it will best fit the psychological and physiological characteristics of the person who will be using that machine. But let me call your attention to what seems to be a paradox. We are without a doubt extremely interested in building physical objects of many kinds: a bridge, a computer, a bar of soap, a needle, a better golf ball, the list could go on and on. At the same time, however, we are very skimpy and hesitant about what we are willing to do so that our mental tools will best fit the meaning-giving and mental characteristics of those who use them. My viewpoint is one that tells us something about the direction in which we ought to be going. It can be stated in one sentence, as follows. We should be making some collective and highly specialized efforts to devise and improve our mental tools. If you take me seriously, we will not only continue to do what we are doing. We will also go beyond what is required

Reduce problems in new control system design

Abstract: Over the past forty years the measurement and control business has changed significantly with regards to: plant operation methods, plant complexity, and types of control equipment and measuring devices. Some basic things that have not changed are: the need for good fundamental control systems engineering, basic single-loop control systems and maintenance requirements. This article discusses the evolution of the process control system, some of the present problems we are facing with suggested solutions, and finally a look to the future.

The Challenge of Interdependence to the IEEE and a Technical Transnational World

Abstract: Systems engineering insights may be able to contribute to a better general and theoretical understanding of the global technical, social, and political systems. Global system stability criteria have been significantly altered by rapid growth and development of new technologies as well as increasing interdependence of nations. Political problem solving may now depend on synthesis of new theories of system configuration and adaptation. The engineering community should be able to provide a problem-solving perspective to improving international stability.