111.3.1 - Systems Approach

Systems Thinking/Approach Methodology

What is "Systems Thinking"?

Systems Thinking is a way of approaching and understanding the complexity of the world by examining the interconnected components and understanding how they interact and influence each other. It involves understanding how changes in one part of a system can affect the entire system, and how the system as a whole can be greater than the sum of its parts.
- Systems thinking is important because it allows individuals and organizations to address complex problems by understanding their underlying causes and relationships, rather than just treating symptoms. By identifying the root causes of a problem, it becomes possible to develop more effective solutions that address the underlying issues, rather than just the symptoms.
- Systems thinking also emphasizes collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders, recognizing that complex problems cannot be solved by a single individual or organization alone. This approach values the diversity of perspectives and encourages dialogue and active engagement to generate creative and innovative solutions.
Traditional methods typically focus on treating the symptoms of a problem, rather than addressing the underlying causes. They often rely on linear cause-and-effect thinking, which assumes that a single factor is responsible for a given outcome. This approach can be effective for simple problems with clear-cut causes, but it can be less effective for complex problems that involve multiple factors and feedback loops.
Furthermore, traditional methods often focus on short-term solutions, while systems thinking takes a long-term view that considers the potential impacts of decisions on the entire system over time.

What is "Systems Approach"?

Systems Approach is a subset of Systems Thinking focused on Mechatronics Systems, developed by Siemens
- The advantage to Systems Approach is being able to break down complex Mechatronics systems and make them easier to understand, thereby enabling Operators, Technicians, and Engineers to effectively interact with them, without extensive, system-specific training or experience:
  - For an Operator, systems approach would involve understanding the overall operation of the system and how the different components work together. The operator would use this understanding to monitor and control the system, making adjustments as necessary to ensure that it is operating correctly and efficiently.
  - For a Technician, systems approach would involve identifying and troubleshooting problems with the system. The technician would use their understanding of the relationships and connections between the various components of the system to diagnose and fix issues that arise. They would also use their knowledge of the system to perform preventative maintenance and make upgrades as needed.
  - For an Engineer, systems approach would involve designing, developing, and maintaining the system. The engineer would use their understanding of the relationships and connections between the various components of the system to optimize its performance, improve its reliability, and reduce downtime. They would also use simulation and modeling tools to test and validate the system design before building it.

System-Module-Component (SMC) Analysis

To understand how (Mechatronics) Systems can be "broken down" & understood, it helps to start with the most basic piece of the puzzle:
- A Component is a single, self-contained item that has a solitary role that - without other components -
  - Examples of Components include: Buttons, Sensors, Actuators, Wires/Cables/Connectors, & Fasteners (Screws, Nuts, Bolts, etc.), among others
- A Module is a collection of one or more components that when combined perform an individual, singular function
  - Examples of Modules include: The Steering Column on a Car, The Keyboard on a Computer, & the a Stage of a Rocket, among others
- A System is a group of one or more modules that, with their combined functions allow multiple, complex functions to be performed
  - Examples of Systems include: a Car, a Microwave, an Airplane, & a CNC Machine or Robot, among others
  - But Systems by this definition can also be sub-systems within larger Systems:
    - A car is a subsystem of a Traffic/Highway system
    - A microwave is a subsystem of a Kitchen system
    - An airplane is a subsystem of an Air Traffic system
    - A CNC machine or robot is a subsystem of a Factory system
Below are some ways you can visualize

Component Types

- Components - the basic building blocks of Mechatronics Systems - can be divided into one of three, function-based categories. Together, these three components types work in concert to make the mechatronics system function as a whole:
  1. Sensors/Inputs
  2. Actuators/Outputs
  3. Processors/Controllers

Sensors/Inputs

Sensors are components that detect changes in the environment and convert them into electrical signals that can be processed by the system. They sense different physical quantities like temperature, position, motion, pressure, force, etc.
- In terms of functionality within a Mechatronics System, Sensors can also be referred to as Inputs

- Sensors can be categorized in several ways:
  - Active vs. Passive Sensors
    - Active Sensors require an external power source to operate and typically emit a signal or beam that interacts with the environment to detect and measure changes. Examples of active sensors include RADAR, LIDAR, and ultrasonic sensors.
    - Passive Sensors do not require an external power source and instead detect and measure changes in the environment passively, such as changes in temperature, light, or sound. Examples of passive sensors include thermometers, cameras, and microphones.
  - Digital vs. Analog Sensors
    - Digital Sensors provide simple on/off electrical signals to communicate simple yes/no detection of environmental changes
    - Analog Sensors provide variable electrical signals to communicate measurements of environmental changes

Actuators/Outputs

Actuators are components that convert electrical signals into mechanical motion or force. They are responsible for the actuation of the system and include devices like motors, pumps, valves, etc.
- In terms of functionality within a Mechatronics System, Sensors can also be referred to as Outputs

Actuators can be divided by in two main ways:
- Source of Energy:
  - Pneumatic Actuators, using compressed Air as energy
  - Hydraulic Actuators, using compressed Liquid (typically hydraulic oil) as energy
  - Electromechanical Actuators, using AC or DC Electricity as energy
  - Magnetic Actuators, using Magnetic Fields as energy
- Motion Type:
  - Linear Actuators move in a straight line motion to control the linear position/speed of objects
  - Rotary Actuators rotate to control the rotational position/speed of objects

Processors/Controllers

Processors are the "brain" of the system, and use the inputs from the sensors and transducers to determine the appropriate output signals to send to the actuators in order to accomplish the desired task or behavior. They can be microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic controllers, etc.
- In terms of functionality within a Mechatronics System, Sensors can also be referred to as Controllers

There are several key types of processors:
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs) are are specialized processors that are designed to control industrial machines and processes. They typically have built-in input/output interfaces and are often used in manufacturing and industrial automation systems.
- Microcontrollers are small, low-power processors that are designed to control specific tasks or functions. They typically have built-in memory and peripheral interfaces, and are often used in embedded systems.
- Microprocessors are are larger, more powerful processors that are capable of running complex software applications. They typically have more memory and processing power than microcontrollers, and are often used in desktop and laptop computers.
- Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) are are specialized processors that are designed to process large amounts of data in real-time. They are commonly used in signal processing applications such as audio and video processing, and are often found in digital cameras, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
- Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are programmable processors that can be configured to perform a wide variety of tasks. They are widely used in high-performance computing, digital signal processing, and other applications that require high processing power and flexibility.

3.1✔ CHECKPOINT

SMC Analysis - Dispenser System

"Dispenser" System

For the Dispenser System pictured here & physically available in the IMO Lab (Room 114 in Building 24):
- Record yourself operating the system in both Auto & Manual mode
Create a SMC Analysis visualization of the "Dispenser" System into its various modules and components:
- Correctly label/differentiate all components by whether they are a Sensor/Actuator/Processor, and what specific kind for each (ex: Pneumatic Linear Actuator)
- Note: Look to the example SMC Analysis of the "Pick 'N Place" System (pictured below & physically next to the Dispenser System)
Once done, create a "Systems Approach Tools" Project page on your portfolio website, and upload documentation your progress (text/pictures/gifs/videos) of:
- The system
- You operating the system
- Your SMC Analysis visualization
- Walkthrough/explanation of your SMC Analysis
- Descriptions/summaries of what you did/learned

Sample SMC Analysis of "Pick 'N Place" System (Example Only)

"Pick 'N Place" System (Example Only, DO NOT Analyze)

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