1. Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Introduction Module:
What is Systems Engineering?
Space Systems Engineering, version 1.0
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Module Purpose: What is Systems Engineering?
Provide some common definitions of systems
engineering in the context of space project
development.
Motivate the need for systems engineering and
demonstrate the consequences of poor systems
engineering.
Describe how systems engineering adds value to
the development of large projects.
Develop some common systems engineering
process models and show how they are related.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
What is Systems Engineering?
Systems engineering is a robust approach to the
design, creation, and operation of systems.
The approach consists of:
• identification and quantification of system goals
• creation of alternative system design concepts
• performance of design trades
• selection and implementation of the best design
• verification that the design is properly built and
integrated, and
• assessment of how well the system meets the goals
This approach is iterative, with several increases in the
resolution of the system baselines (which contain
requirements, design details, verification plans and cost
and performance estimates).
Ares 1
4. 4
Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
• Systems of pieces built by different
subsystem groups did not perform
system functions
• Often broke at the interfaces
• Problems emerged and desired properties did not
when subsystems designed independently were integrated
• Managers and chief engineers tended to pay
attention to the areas in which they were skilled
• Developed systems were not usable
• Cost overruns, schedule delays,
performance problems
Original Reasons for Systems Engineering
Photo from Dec 1999 Civil Engineering magazine
$
Vasa, Sweden, 1628
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
There is tremendous potential for wasted effort on
large projects, since their development requires that
many subsystems be developed in parallel.
Without a clear understanding of what must be done
for each subsystem the development team runs the
risk of inconsistent designs, conflicting interfaces or
duplication of effort.
Systems engineering provides a systematic,
disciplined approach to defining, for each member of
the development team, what must be done for
success.
More Motivation for Systems Engineering
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Today Aerospace System Developers Are
Calling For More and Better Systems Engineers
Why?
Trends in the development and design of new space
systems require more systems engineering.
Large space projects struggle with cost, schedule
and technical performance.
Demographics - aging workforce and skill retention.
New space systems are larger and more complex -
requiring a higher percentage of systems engineers.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering is The Response to Trends In
The Design and Development of New Space Systems
New space systems are more likely to have:
Technology development
A variety of subsystem technical maturities
Consider and reuse existing designs
Consider and incorporate COTS subsystems
Mandated implementations or subsystem vendors
Greater dependence on system models for design decisions
More stakeholders, institutional partners, constraints and
ambiguity
More customer oversight and non-advocate review
‘System-of-systems’ requirements
More people - project sizes are growing
Physically distributed design teams
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
NASA, DOD and Industry Call For
More and Better Systems Engineers
All of the factors identified by NASA that contributed to program
failure and significant cost overrun are systems engineering
factors, e.g.,
Inadequate requirements management
Poor systems engineering processes
Inadequate heritage design analyses in early phases
Inadequate systems-level risk management
Reference: NASA, Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation, Systems Engineering and Institutional
Transitions Study, April 5, 2006. Reproduced in National Academies book - Building a Better NASA
Workforce: Meeting the Workforce Needs for the National Vision for Space Exploration.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering is
Built on the Lessons of the Past
Systems engineering is a relatively new engineering
discipline that is rapidly growing as systems get
larger and more complex.
Most of the foundations of systems engineering are
built on the lessons of past projects.
Recurring mission success is codified in techniques
and guidelines (e.g., the NASA Systems Engineering
Handbook).
Since mission failures are each unique, their lessons
retain their identity.
NASA Lessons Learned Resources:
http://www.appel.nasa.gov/ask/archives/lessons.php
http://pbma.nasa.gov/lessonslearned_main_cid_3
http://ildp1.nasa.gov/offices/oce/llis/home/
http://klabs.org/DEI/lessons_learned/
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Declining Systems Engineering Expertise
Contributes to a Spectacular Satellite Failure
Future Imagery Architecture - FIA - a $5 billion (award) spy satellite
system was behind schedule and expected costs to complete were $13
billion over budget.
The optical satellite system of FIA was canceled in 2005 after 6 years and
spending more than $4 billion.
“ … (a) factor was a decline of American expertise in systems
engineering, the science and art of managing complex engineering
projects to weigh risks, gauge feasibility, test components and
ensure that the pieces come together smoothly.” NYT, 11/11/07
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Pause and Learn Opportunity
Pre-assign the class to read the NYT article:
FAILURE TO LAUNCH; In Death of Spy Satellite
Program, Lofty Plans and Unrealistic Bids; New York
Times, page 1; November 11, 2007; Philip Taubman
Ask the class:
• What are the top 10 reasons why the FIA Program
failed?
• See notes for additional discussion points.
12. 1
Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Definition Phase Investment is Critical to
Managing Cost Overruns
Total Program Overrun
32 NASA Programs
R
2
= 0.5206
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
0 5 10 15 20
Definition Percent of Total Estimate
Program Overrun
Definition $
Definition Percent = ----------------------------------
Target + Definition$
Actual + Definition$
Program Overrun = ----------------------------------
Target + Definition$
GRO76
OMV
GALL
IRAS
TDRSS
HST
TETH
LAND76
MARS
MAG
GOES I-M
CEN
ACT
CHA.REC.
SEASAT
DE
UARS
SMM
EDO
ERB77
STS
LAND78
COBE
GRO82
ERB88
VOY
EUVE/EP
ULYS
PIONVEN
IUE ISEE
HEAO
(Percent)
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
• Most of the NASA project data used for the ‘Werner Gruhl plot’ are
more than 20 years old.
• A study of 40, more recent NASA missions (including those below)
showed an average cost growth of 27% and an average schedule
growth of 22%.
Cost and Schedule Overruns Continue
to be a Problem on Space Projects
• Discovery
– NEAR
– Lunar Prospector
– Genesis
– Messenger
– Mars Pathfinder
– Stardust
– Contour
– Deep Impact
• Mars Exploration
– MGS
– MCO/MPL
– MER
– MRO
• New Millennium
– DS-1
– EO-1
• Explorer
– FAST
– ACE
– TRACE
– SWAS
– WIRE
– FUSE
– IMAGE
– MAP
– HESSI
– GALEX
– SWIFT
– HETE-II
– THEMIS
• Great Observatory Class
– Spitzer
– Gravity Probe B
• Flagship
– EOS-Aqua
– EOS-Aura
– TRMM
• Solar Terrestrial Probe
– TIMED
– STEREO
• Other
– LANDSAT-7
– SORCE
– ICESAT
14. 1
Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering Process Models
Begin with Reductionism
Reductionism, a fundamental technique of systems
engineering, decomposes complex problems into
smaller, easier to solve problems - divide and
conquer is a success strategy.
Systems engineering divides complex development
projects by product and phase.
Decomposing a product creates a hierarchy of
progressively smaller pieces; e.g.,
System, Segment, Element, Subsystem, Assembly,
Subassembly, Part
Decomposing the development life of a new project
creates a sequence of defined activities; e.g.,
Need, Specify, Decompose, Design, Integrate, Verify,
Operate, Dispose
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
A Traditional View of the Systems Engineering
Process Begins with Requirements Analysis
Systems Analysis,
Optimization & Control
Requirements
Analysis
Functional
Allocation
Synthesis/
Design
Requirements Loop
Design Loop
Verification Loop
Understand the requirements and
how they affect the way in which
the system must function.
Identify a feasible solution
that functions in a way that
meets the requirements
Show that the synthesized
design meets all requirements
Measure progress and effectiveness;
assess alternatives; manage
configuration, interfaces, data products
and program risk
16. Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
The Systems Engineering ‘Vee’ Model Extends the Traditional
The Systems Engineering ‘Vee’ Model Extends the Traditional
View with Explicit Decomposition and Integration
View with Explicit Decomposition and Integration
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Mission
Requirements
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System
Demonstration
& Validation
Develop System
Requirements &
System Architecture
Allocate Performance
Specs & Build
Verification Plan
Design
Components
Integrate System &
Verify
Performance Specs
Component
Integration &
Verification
Verify
Component
Performance
Fabricate, Assemble,
Code &
Procure Parts
Time & Project Maturity
17. 1
Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
The NASA Systems Engineering Engine Adds to
the Vee By Adding Optimization and Control
Optimization and Control
Processes 10 - 17
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
NASA Systems Engineering Engine
NASA Systems Engineering Handbook SP-6105, 2007
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Good Systems Engineering Requires
Competency in at Least 3 Domains
The NASA systems engineering engine has 17 process
activities or systems engineering functions for system design,
realization and management.
But good systems engineering also requires technical domain
and personal attribute competency. This view is captured by the
JPL system engineering competency model.
Systems Engineering Functions
Captured by the 17 process activities
Personal Behaviors
Domain Specific Technical Knowledge
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
What is a System?
Simply stated, a system is an
integrated composite of people,
products, and processes that
provide a capability to satisfy a
stated need or objectives.
What are examples of a system in the
aerospace industry?
Personnel
Facilities
Processes
Hardware
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Examples of Systems
Space Shuttle Main Engine vs. a collection of parts
Space Shuttle Orbiter with engines and avionics
Space Shuttle Orbiter with solid rocket boosters and
external fuel tank
Space Transportation System (STS) with payload,
launch pad, mission controllers, vehicle assembly
facilities, trainers and simulators, solid rocket booster
rescue ships…
“System of Systems”
STS + International Space Station + TDRSS communication
satellites +…
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Module Summary: What is Systems Engineering?
Systems engineering is a robust approach to the design,
creation, and operation of systems.
Systems engineering is a ubiquitous and necessary part of the
development of every space project.
The function of systems engineering is to guide the engineering
of complex systems.
Most space projects struggle keeping to their cost and schedule
plans. Systems engineering helps reduce these risks.
Systems engineering decomposes projects in both the product
and time domain, making smaller problems that are easier to
solve.
System decomposition and subsequent system integration are
foundations of the Vee and the NASA systems engineering
process models.
23. Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Backup Slides
for Introduction Module
Supplemental thoughts on Systems Engineering from
various sources, as specified in the notes section.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
What is Systems Engineering?
Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary engineering
management process to evolve and verify an
integrated, life-cycle balanced set of system solutions
that satisfy customer needs.
Accomplished by integrating 3 major activities:
1. Development phasing that controls the design process and
provides baselines that coordinate design efforts.
2. A systems engineering process that provides a structure for
solving design problems and tracking requirements flow through
the design effort.
3. Life cycle integration that involves the customers in the design
process and ensure that the system developed is viable
throughout its life.
The function of systems engineering is to guide the
engineering of complex systems.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering -
Further Considerations
Systems engineering is a standardized, disciplined
management process for development of system
solutions that provides a constant approach to
system development in an environment of change
and uncertainty.
It also provides for simultaneous product and process
development, as well as a common basis for
communication.
Systems engineering ensures that the correct
technical tasks get done during development
through planning, tracking and coordinating.
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering Process
• The systems engineering process is a top-down,
comprehensive, and iterative problem-solving
process, applied through all stages of development,
that is used to:
• Transform needs and requirements into a set of system
product and process descriptions (adding value and more
detail with each level of development)
• Generate information for decision makers, and
• Provide input for the next level of development.
• The fundamental systems engineering activities are
• Requirements analysis
• Functional analysis/allocation
• Design synthesis
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
• System – The combination of elements that function together to produce the
capability required to meet a need. The elements include all hardware, software,
equipment, facilities, personnel, processes, and procedures needed for this purpose.
• Systems Engineering – A disciplined approach for the definition, implementation,
integration and operation of a system (product or service). The emphasis is on
achieving stakeholder functional, physical and operational performance
requirements in the intended use environments over its planned life within cost and
schedule constraints. Systems engineering includes the engineering processes and
technical management processes that consider the interface relationships across all
elements of the system, other systems or as a part of a larger system.
• The discipline of systems engineering uses techniques and tools appropriate for use
by any engineer with responsibility for designing a system as defined above. That
includes subsystems.
• Project Management – The process of planning, applying, and controlling the use of
funds, personnel, and physical resources to achieve a specific result
Unless specifically noted hereafter we will
use “Systems Engineering” to refer to the
discipline not the organization.
System, Systems Engineering, and Project Management
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Common Technical Processes to Manage the Technical
Aspect of the Project Life Cycle - NASA Model ( 7123.1A)
The Systems Engineering Engine
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Systems Engineering
•The systems engineering discipline shall be applied throughout
the project life cycle as a comprehensive, iterative technical and
management process to:
• Translate an operational need into a solution through a systematic, concurrent
approach to integrated design and its related downstream processes
• Integrate the technical input of the entire development community and all
technical disciplines
• Ensure the compatibility of all interfaces
• Ensure the integration, verification, and validation processes are considered
throughout the life cycle starting with system concept selection
• Identify, characterize and mitigate risks
• Provide information for management decisions
Ensure and certify system integrity
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Space Systems Engineering: Introduction Module
Interface Control
• Harness & Connectors
• Structural connections
• Software protocols & signal processing
With Process Comes
Systems Engineering Practices
Acquisition strategies
• Purchase
• In-house
• Contribution
• Other
Documentation Organization
•Requirements (!!)
•Materials Lists
•CAD drawings
•Safety documents
•Interface controls
•Configuration management
Set up a plan for each of
these EARLY!
Identify design drivers
•Cost
•Schedule
•Performance
Execute a risk
management plan
Design Budgets
• Power
• Memory/data
• Communications
• Mass
• $$$
• Other resources
Editor's Notes
#1:Version 1.0
SOURCE INFORMATION:
The material contained in this lecture was developed by Lisa Guerra of NASA’s Exploration Systems Mission Directorate while on assignment in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. As part of a course entitled, Space Systems Engineering, the lecture was piloted at UT-Austin in Spring 2008.
The content that follows was also reviewed and edited by Dr. Paul Graf, Adjunct Professor at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
#3:Source: NASA Systems Engineering Handbook SP-6105 (1995)
#4:Source: Twelve Roles and Three Types of Systems Engineering
Sarah A. Sheard; Software Productivity Consortium; February 11, 2003; GSFC Systems Engineering Seminar Series
#5:Using Historical NASA Cost and Schedule Growth to Set Future Program and Project Reserve Guidelines; Debra L. Emmons, Robert E. Bitten, Claude W. Freaner; IEEE Aerospace Conference, Big Sky, Montana, March 3-10, 2007.
#8:* Reference: NASA, Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation, Systems Engineering and Institutional Transitions Study, April 5, 2006. Reproduced in National Academies book - Building a Better NASA Workforce: Meeting the Workforce Needs for the National Vision for Space Exploration
#9:The NASA lessons learned databases cover lots of topics, such as management, parts screening, etc. Some may apply to systems engineering.
Often SE is built on more abstract lessons. For example they are the
lessons that lead to the guidance that at PDR a project should have a 25%
mass margin, a verification plan and a draft disposal plan.
#10:Reference: FAILURE TO LAUNCH; In Death of Spy Satellite Program, Lofty Plans and Unrealistic Bids; New York Times, page 1; November 11, 2007; Philip Taubman
Picture: Lacrosse-5 radar spy satellite under construction; circa 2004
Pause and learn opportunity (assumptions, approximations and uncertain information). How many people were working on FIA when it was cancelled?
#11:What are the top 10 reasons why the FIA Program failed?
1. Unrealistic tight budget; implementation under a cost cap
2. Fast, unrealistic schedule
3. Ambitious technology; pushing the state-of-the-art without significant R&D investment
4. Lack of government (NRO) oversight; contractor was asked to police itself
5. Complex design leading to infeasible manufacturing
6. Design changes based on added requirements from Washington; additional system functions required post 9/11.
7. Lack of engineering standards between the prime and the suppliers (tin example)
8. Lack of realistic cost estimates
9. Inexperienced contractor (ethics of bidding)
10. Use of COTS parts; cutbacks on testing
Other discussion points to make:
- Paradigm of faster-better-cheaper; did not work; joke- pick any 2
- Use of review panels for expert/independent opinion
- 2 independent cost estimates after the fact
- Aim for only one miracle per program
#12:Source:Understanding the Value of Systems Engineering; Eric Honour; INCOSE 2004
Pause and reflect: What is the optimum definition phase percentage?
This chart is transcribed from a manual chart created by Werner Gruhl NASA Comptroller’s Office in 1992 prior to his retirement. Individual data points are labeled with project names such as “STS” (Shuttle), Pioneer/Venture, Venus probes, etc. Each point is a major NASA project. “Definition” percent is based on phases A & B of the five-phase NASA project model. This chart shows how important it is to define the project before starting the detail work.
Note distinction from SE. This is “project definition,” not SE. Project definition includes some tasks that are not SE, such as model prototyping, program management, etc. SE also includes tasks in phases C, D, & E that are not included in this chart.
Systems engineering resources must support affordability. Past experience supports the premise that projects that invest more in systems engineering (as a percentage of total cost) have less of a chance of cost overrun.
Note: Program Overrun is calculated as (Phase A + Phase B) / (cost to complete estimate at confirmation +Phase A + Phase B)
#13:The NASA mission start dates were between 1989 and 2004.
Using Historical NASA Cost and Schedule Growth to Set Future Program and Project Reserve Guidelines; Debra L. Emmons, Robert E. Bitten, Claude W. Freaner; IEEE Aerospace Conference, Big Sky, Montana, March 3-10, 2007.
#15:Source: From University Nanosatellite Program briefing by the Air Force Research Lab representative, Brian Engberg. Adapted from the draft Systems Engineering Mil Standard 499B; May 1994.
See also DAU Systems Engineering Fundamentals, 2001, page 6
#16:See for example: Forsberg, K., Mooz, H., Cotterman, H. Visualizing Project Management, 3rd edition, John Wiley and Sons, New York, NY, 2005.
#19:If You Want Good Systems Engineers, Sometimes You Have To Grow Your Own!; Jansma, P.A., Derro, M.E.; Jet Propulsion Lab., Pasadena
This paper appears in: Aerospace Conference, 2007 IEEE; Publication Date: 3-10 March 2007; Location: Big Sky, MT; ISSN: 1095-323X; ISBN: 1-4244-0525-4
Examples of domain specific technical knowledge areas
Flight/Spacecraft/Payload Systems Engineering
Mission Operations System (MOS) Systems Engineering
Ground Data System (GDS) Systems Engineering
Avionics Systems Engineering
Deep Space Network (DSN) Systems Engineering
Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) Systems Engineering
Guidance, Navigation and Control Systems Engineering
Instrument Systems Engineering
Mechanical Systems Engineering
Power Systems Engineering
Project Software Systems Engineering (PSSE)
Propulsion Systems Engineering
Software Systems Engineering (SSE)
Telecommunications Systems Engineering
Thermal/Fluid Systems Engineering
Examples of Personal Behaviors
Leadership Skills
Has the ability to influence
Has the ability to work with a team
Has the ability to trust others
Communicates vision and technical steps needed to reach implementation
Mentors and coaches less experienced systems engineers
Attitudes and Attributes
Has intellectual self-confidence
Has intellectual curiosity interrelationships
Has ability to understand and manage change
Remains objective and maintains a healthy skepticism
Communication
Advances ideas and fosters open two-way discussions
Communicates through storytelling and analogies
Listens effectively and translates information
Problem Solving and Systems Thinking
Manages risk
Thinks critically and penetrates a topic in a methodical manner
#20:From Boeing:
Elements of a System:
Equipment Hardware -- Software -- Facilities -- Personnel -- Data
#21:Depends on ones perspective, and level of involvement.
#24:Source: Systems Engineering Fundamental; Defense Acquisition University; 2001
The function of systems engineering is to guide the engineering of complex systems.
Source; Systems Engineering Principles and Practice; Kossiakoff and Sweet; 2003
#25:Source: Systems Engineering Fundamentals, Defense Acquisition University, 2001
#26:Source: Systems Engineering Fundamentals, Defense Acquisition University, 2001
This is the traditional view of systems engineering activities (e.g., Mil Standard 499B) in that the results are validated designs.
More current views (e.g., the Vee model or the NASA model as described by NPR 7123.1 or the 2007 Systems Engineering Handbook SP-6105) add more of the system lifecycle to the systems engineering activities.
Namely, fabrication, integration, verification, validation, operation and disposal.