Foundations of Technology

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the Foundations of Technology and Systems Engineering.

Universal Systems Model

A framework that includes input, process, output, and feedback, helping users isolate and maintain system components.

System

A group of organized parts or subsystems integrated to achieve a desired goal, involving inputs, processes, and outputs.

Simple Systems

Systems with a limited number of easily identified subsystems.

Complex Systems

Systems that have a hierarchy of subsystems, often interacting with the environment or unknown variables.

Biological Systems

Groups of organs that work together to perform a task, such as the heart and brain.

Mechanical Systems

Systems of mechanisms that use power to change force or movement, such as a thermostat or bicycle.

Ecosystems

Groups of organisms interacting with their natural environment.

Social Systems

Interactions among organisms in the designed world, such as supply and demand.

Inputs

Resources that flow into a technological system, including people, materials, tools, energy, and information.

Processes

Purposeful sequencing of tasks combining resources to produce a desired output, including problem solving, production, and management.

Output

The end result of a system's processes, which can be positive or negative and takes various forms.

Feedback

Information used to monitor and control a system, allowing necessary adjustments during operation.

Open Systems

Systems that do not have a feedback loop and require human intervention, such as a microwave.

Closed Systems

Systems that apply feedback to manage and control themselves, as seen in home heating systems.

Systems Theory

The study of how natural and manmade systems work, suggesting interrelated parts produce outputs.