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Engineering Systems Integration
NotaSystem
NotaSystem
NotaSystem
NotaSystem
ProtaSystem
ProtaSystem
ProtaSystem
System
System
System
System
System
Stable
Stable
Metastable
FIgure 3.2
Metastability and stability.
Instability
Instability is not the opposite of stability. Instability results in loss of functionality or performance. The consequences of instability are generally
correlated with loss of value. Aggregations of objects generally have only
a few EMMI events with determinable losses, should an object fail to perform as expected. A system comprised of objects has a multiplicity of functions with an intricate set of variables that determine performances. There
is a higher level of dependencies built into systems rather than with an
aggregation of objects. Losses are higher when systems cease to be systems.
Our dependencies on systems are higher than on aggregations of objects.
We depend on the Sun–Earth* system for life. Whether objects are grouped
and actively sending EMMI as aggregates (NotaSystem), protasystemic
aggregates (MetaSystem), or systemic aggregates (System), stability is
determined by their ability to provide steady, reliable, and durable functions and performances. From an interaction and integration perspective,
stability is only achieved and measurable by functions, their performances,
and related quality.
Integration Perspective
Integration may seem explicitly fundamental to all structures, but it is
more appropriate to say that it is interaction that is explicitly fundamental
to all structures, with integration being different than interaction. Systems
* Probably should include the Moon, since tidal and weather effects are strong determinants
for moving and mixing the atmosphere, providing the dynamics for orbital stability, and
facilitating crustal movements that cause magma to flow, soil to rejuvenate, plant life to flourish over eons.