Air Compression Functional Flow Block Diagram
Step-wise example of how to create a useful Functional Flow Block Diagram. read more.
Combustion Products Topical Analysis and Descriptive Topical Parameterization
One portion of a NASA technical note (NASA TN D-5452 "Thermodynamic and Transport Properties of Air and the Combustion Products of Natural Gas and of ASTM-A-1 Fuel with Air") is topically analyzed as an example of the process. read more.
Figure of Merit
A Figure of Merit (FoM) is a calculated parameter used to characterize some aspect of optimization or (less often) aggregation with respect to the dingus. This notion is distinct from direct characterization of the dingus itself. FoM can be hideously complicated, which is usually a good sign that things might have become overly confuscated. See, for... read more
Four-bar Linkage Failure Functional Discovery Analysis
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. A concrete example is described here, based on events in the real world. read more.
Machine Controller Test Anomaly
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. The concrete example described here was based on events in which the presence of any perceptible functionality at all was in doubt. read more.
Measure
(1) As a verb: the act of verifying a quantity by inspection. (2) As a vernacular noun: a seldom-used term referring to a quantifiable property or attribute of a thing. The “thing” itself can be either concrete or abstract. The usage arises from legacy System Engineering practice with respect to requirements, referring to a property... read more
Measuring Performance
Two different types of Performance Measures are defined and described. Their abstract characteristics permit the quantification of how well Functions are performed by the developed system. read more.
Orbital Parameters Topical Analysis and Parameterization
Relational database design principles are applied to the analysis of topics and identification of associated parameters. read more.
Qualitative Requirement “Binding”
An excerpt from MIL-A-83577B (Assemblies, Moving Mechanical, for Space and Launch Vehicles, General Specification for) is analyzed to concretely demonstrate topical analysis and parameterization. read more.
Release and Retention Mechanism Topical Analysis and Parameterization
An excerpt from MIL-A-83577B (Assemblies, Moving Mechanical, for Space and Launch Vehicles, General Specification for) is analyzed to concretely demonstrate topical analysis and parameterization. read more.
Surrogate
A situation where a technical characterization having direct relevance has been replaced by one having contrived relevance, usually by way of analytical inference. Surrogation is most commonly seen in the context of technical requirements where, in the legacy, they’re sometimes known as “in-lieu-of” requirements. In some cases, the surrogate can be construed as a Similarity Parameter. Contrast with... read more
Surrogation
The concept of substituting one parameter or measure for another is introduced. The reasons for and circumstances pertinent to the practice are briefly described. read more.
Topical Parameterization, Part I: Individual Parameters
The practice of assigning quantifiable properties to topics is introduced and discussed in detail. Part 1 of 3 parts. read more.
Topical Parameterization, Part II: Sets of Parameters
The practice of assigning sets of quantifiable properties to topics is discussed in detail. Part 2 of 3 parts on parameterization in the System Engineering context. read more.
Topical Parameterization, Part III: Measures
The practice of assigning specific algorithms for calculating the values for quantifiable properties of topics is described. Part 3 of 3 parts on parameterization in the System Engineering context. read more.