Understanding the Universal Systems

Model

StandardMSENGR-TS-1: The students will

develop an understanding of the Universal Systems Model.

a) Define Universal Systems Model b) Identify the components of a system c) Examine a variety of simple, common systems

What is a universal systems model?

A systems model involves a combination of elements or parts to complete a task.  When the parts of a system work together, they accomplish a goal.  

A deeper understanding of:INPUTS

“Inputs” are all needed resources to accomplish the goals of the system.

1) people2) Knowledge3) Materials4) Energy5) fixed capital(land, buildings, tools, and

equipment6) Money.

A deeper understanding of:

PROCESSES“Processes” are the areas of the system is where

action takes place to achieve the goals of the system.

A good example of this could be the processor in a computer.

A deeper understanding of:

OUTPUTThe “output” of a system is the accomplishment

of the goal to which all of the inputs and processes are applied.

These may be products, services, new knowledge, and impacts of the system on society.

A deeper understanding of:

FEEDBACKInformation can be transferred back to any

position in the system for evaluation to see if things are going as planned.

Corrections can be made in inputs and processes to alter the outputs from the system.

Let’s look at some examples.

Communication

Input

Sender sends messages

Process

Information travels across airways

Output

Receiver gets messages

Feedback

A conversation takes place

Let’s look at some examples.

Structures

Input

Materials, plans, tools, time, people,

energy, $

Process

Construction

Output

Building

Feedback

Response of users about aesthetics, durability, and function

Let’s look at some examples.

Manufacturing

Input

Materials, energy, tools, time, people,

capital, $

Process

The making of a product

Output

Finished product

Feedback

Response of consumers

Let’s look at some examples.

Computers

Input

People, energy, tools (mouse,

keyboard, server)

Process

Moving the mouse, typing, information

being converted

Output

Document, heat, music, visuals

Feedback

Surfing, reading, dancing, frustration, hurting eyes

Explain the braking system on a car/truck.

• Input• Process• Output• Feedback

Native American Weaponry

Paleo Indians first they used large spearsInputProcessOutputFeedback

Native American Weaponry

Later, the Woodland Indians used bows.InputProcessOutputFeedback

What about you?

Robots have many systems. You will learn and construct each system individually so that they can work together.

But for now…

You will use what you know about simple systems to construct a catapult.

You will:1. Turn in a diagram for approval2. Construct your catapult3. Test on day 3

Your catapult must:

• Stand on its own (10 pts) • Not fall apart after it is used (10 pts) • Be made of only the items you purchase from

me (10 pts)• Throw a tennis ball at least 2 ft. (30 pts)• Complete the tennis ball throw 2 times in a

row (20 pts)

Rules

• You have only $20• You can only make 3 trips to the store• Arrive at the store with your order ready• You must show me a neat/clean design before

you can start ( will initial it for 20 pts)

Your catapult must:

• Stand on its own (10 pts) • Not fall apart after it is used (10 pts) • Be made of only the items you purchase from

me (10 pts)• Throw a tennis ball at least 2 ft. (30 pts)• Complete the tennis ball throw 2 times in a

row (20 pts)

CREDIT IS DUE TO:www.dallastown.net/Page/1760www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/cms/lib/NC01001395/Centricity/Domain/1555/3.03_Universal_Systems_Model.pdfhttp://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-parts/brakes/brake-types/brake.htmhttp://www.speroforum.com/a/IXNDUKAEHB9/62784-Ancient-humans-came-to-North-America-earlier-than-previously-thought#.U-y-2_ldXAwhttp://www.museum.state.il.us/muslink/nat_amer/pre/htmls/w_weapons.htmlhttp://www.allonrobots.com/vex-robotics.html