Systems Engineering
Introduction
An introduction to the fundamentals of Systems
Engineering for students in Automotive Engineering.
Pr. Khalid ELATIFE
Why This Course Matters: Mastering Complexity
Complex Systems multidisciplinarity
Modern automotive and aerospace systems are They integrate diverse fields: mechanical,
inherently intricate, involving a multitude of electrical, software, and control engineering,
interacting parts and functions. demanding a holistic approach.
Managing Risk
Integration Failures
Systems Engineering provides the structured
Many system failures stem from poor integration
framework to manage complexity, mitigate risks,
between components, rather than individual part
and ensure seamless integration across the entire
defects.
lifecycle.
Learning Objectives for Session 1
Define 'System'
Understand the core definition and characteristics of a system in an engineering context.
Explain Systems Engineering
Grasp the meaning and scope of Systems Engineering as a discipline.
Criticality in Automotive field
Appreciate why Systems Engineering is indispensable for automotive sector.
System Life Cycle
Familiarise yourselves with the various phases a system undergoes from conception to retirement.
V-Model Overview
Gain a high-level understanding of the V-Model for system development.
Understanding What Constitutes a System
At its core, a system is a fundamental concept in engineering, defining how various elements work together.
Interacting Components Common Objective
A collection of distinct parts All components are organised and
that communicate and function collaboratively to achieve
influence each other. a specific goal or purpose.
Defined Environment
The system operates within specific external conditions and constraints.
Key Elements:
• Components: The individual parts or modules.
• Interfaces: The connections and interactions between components.
• Boundaries: The delineation between the system and its external environment.
• Environment: The external factors influencing the system's operation.
Systems in Action: Automotive & Aerospace Examples
Automotive Applications: Aerospace Applications:
• Vehicle Braking System: Integrating mechanical, • Flight Control System: Managing aircraft movement
hydraulic, and electronic components for safe through hydraulic and electronic interfaces.
deceleration. • Avionics System: The suite of electronic systems for
• Electric Powertrain: The coordinated operation of navigation, communication, and management.
batteries, motors, and power electronics. • Fuel Management System: Optimising fuel flow and
• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems): distribution across an aircraft.
Sensors, algorithms, and actuators working
together for safety and convenience.
System vs. Subsystem: A Hierarchical View
System
A system is a set of interacting elements organized to achieve a global function within a defined
environment.
Subsystem
A subsystem is a self-contained part of a system that performs a specific function contributing to the
overall system mission.
Comparison Table
Aspect System Subsystem
Scope Global Limited
Objective Mission-level Function-level
Interfaces External + internal Mostly internal
Requirements High-level Derived
Verification System validation Subsystem verification
System vs. Subsystem: A Hierarchical View
Concrete Examples for Automotive field:
Example 1: Electric Vehicle (EV) Example 2: Advanced Driver Assistance System
➢ System: Electric Vehicle (ADAS)
➢ Subsystems: ➢ System: Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
• Battery Management System (BMS) ➢ Subsystems:
• Electric Motor Drive • Perception System (camera, radar, sensors)
• Thermal Management System • Decision & Planning System
• Braking System • Vehicle Control System
• Human–Machine Interface (HMI)
• Communication System (CAN / Ethernet)
Navigating the Labyrinth: Why Modern Systems Are Complex
Increasing Component Count
A proliferation of individual parts and modules leads to more interactions and potential points of failure.
Strong Subsystem Coupling
Subsystems are highly interdependent, meaning changes in one can have significant ripple effects across the entire system.
Software-Intensive
The growing reliance on complex software introduces new layers of abstraction and potential for logical errors.
Safety & Regulatory Constraints
Stringent requirements for safety, security, and environmental compliance add significant design and verification challenges.
Performance & Cost Optimisation
Balancing conflicting objectives—such as maximum performance with minimum cost—introduces trade-offs
and design compromises.
Defining Systems Engineering: The INCOSE Perspective
Systems Engineering is a transdisciplinary and integrative approach to
enable the successful realisation, use, and retirement of systems.
— International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE)
Multidisciplinary Life-Cycle Oriented Stakeholder-Focused
It synthesises contributions from Focuses on the entire lifespan of Prioritises understanding and
various engineering disciplines to a system, from initial concept to meeting the diverse needs and
create a cohesive whole. eventual disposal. expectations of all involved parties.
This definition highlights Systems Engineering as a comprehensive approach that bridges
gaps between specialties, ensuring that the system developed meets its intended purpose
effectively and efficiently.
The Core Functions of Systems Engineering
Understand Stakeholder Needs
Eliciting and clarifying the diverse requirements from all stakeholders.
Define Requirements
Translating needs into clear, verifiable technical specifications.
Design System Architecture
Creating the high-level structure and interfaces of the system.
Manage Interfaces
Ensuring seamless communication and interaction between system components.
Verification & Validation
Confirming that the system meets requirements and stakeholder needs.
Manage System Life Cycle
Overseeing the system from concept to retirement, including maintenance and upgrades.
Traditional vs. Systems Engineering: A Paradigm Shift
The Systems Engineering approach offers distinct advantages over traditional engineering methods, particularly in complex projects.
Traditional Approach Systems Engineering Approach
Component-Focused: Emphasis on optimising individual System-Level Thinking: Holistic view, considering the
parts in isolation. entire system and its interactions from the outset.
Late Integration: Components are developed separately Early Integration: Interfaces and integration strategies
and only brought together at the final stages. are planned and tested much earlier.
Late Problem Detection: Issues, especially those related Early Problem Detection: Potential issues are
to interfaces and interactions, are often discovered late in identified and addressed proactively, significantly
the development cycle, leading to costly rework. reducing risks and costs.
Where Is SE Used?
Automotive Aerospace & Defence Rail & Transport
OEMs and suppliers Aircraft and defence systems Rail networks and infrastructure
Energy Systems Robotics
Power generation and grid Autonomous systems and robots
System Life Cycle
Concept
Requirements definition
Design
Implementation
Integration
Verification & Validation
Operation & Maintenance
Retirement / Disposal
The V-Model
Why the V-Model Is Important ?
SE in Automotive Engineering
Examples:
• ISO 26262 (Functional Safety)
• Vehicle system integration
• Electric and autonomous vehicles
• Supplier–OEM coordination
17
Mini-Class Activity
Exercise (10 minutes):
Identify:
System:
• System boundary
• Car braking system
• Main subsystems
• External interfaces
18
Design Project
➢ Design of a differential for a motorsport vehicle;
➢ Simplified thermal management system for a low-cost battery pack;
➢ Cabin air quality monitoring system with cabin filter assessment;
➢ Battery monitoring system for micro-electric vehicle (ex: electric bike);
➢ Design of a simplified mini wheel alignment bench;
➢ Vibration Isolation System for a Miniature Electric Motor