VCE Systems Engineering key terms

A set of connected parts that work together to achieve a purpose, with inputs, processes, outputs and boundaries that separate it from its surroundings.

A smaller system nested inside a larger one that performs a specific function and interacts with other subsystems to produce the overall system behaviour.

A system that exchanges energy, matter or information with its environment, so its behaviour depends on both internal components and external conditions.

A system with no exchange of matter across its boundary, though energy may still cross; useful for modelling controlled or isolated processes.

The defined edge that separates a system from its environment and from other systems, determining what is included in analysis and design.

Any resource, signal, energy or material that enters a system and is acted on by its processes to produce an output.

The transformation steps inside a system that convert inputs into outputs, including mechanical, electrical, chemical or information operations.

The result produced by a system's processes, which may be a product, movement, signal, waste or service delivered to the environment or user.

Information about a system's output that is returned to adjust its input or process, allowing the system to correct error and maintain a target.

A control arrangement where the system acts on a predetermined sequence without measuring the output, so it cannot correct for disturbances.

A control arrangement that continuously measures output, compares it with a target and adjusts the process to reduce the difference between them.

The desired value or target that a control system aims to maintain, against which measured output is compared to generate a correction.

A device that detects a physical quantity such as temperature, light, position or pressure and converts it into a signal a system can use.

A component that converts a control signal into physical action, such as a motor, solenoid or hydraulic cylinder, producing movement or force.

A device that converts one form of energy into another, such as electrical energy into sound or mechanical movement into an electrical signal.

An assembly of linked parts that transmits or transforms motion and force, such as gears, levers, cams, belts or linkages.

The ratio of the number of teeth on a driven gear to the driving gear, determining changes in speed and torque through a gear train.

A turning effect produced by a force acting at a distance from a pivot, measured in newton metres and central to rotating machinery design.

The ratio of output force to input force in a machine or mechanism, indicating how much a device multiplies an applied effort.

A closed path through which electric current flows, containing sources, conductors and loads arranged to perform a useful function.

The relationship stating that voltage equals current multiplied by resistance in a conductor at constant temperature, written V = IR.

A circuit in which components are connected end to end so the same current flows through each and voltages add across them.

A circuit in which components are connected across common points so the same voltage applies to each and currents divide between branches.

A programmable integrated circuit containing a processor, memory and input/output pins, used to read sensors and drive actuators in embedded systems.

A diagram using standard symbols to represent the sequence of steps, decisions and loops in a process or program.

A finite, ordered set of unambiguous steps that solves a problem or completes a task, forming the logic behind a program.

The use of compressed gas, usually air, to transmit force and motion through cylinders, valves and pipes in control systems.

The use of pressurised liquid to transmit force and motion, offering high force in compact space but requiring careful sealing and maintenance.

A device that starts, stops, directs or regulates the flow of fluid or gas in a pneumatic or hydraulic circuit.

Computer-aided design: software used to create, model and document parts and assemblies digitally before manufacture or simulation.

A detailed technical drawing that gives dimensions, materials, tolerances and assembly information needed to manufacture a component or product.

The permissible variation in a dimension or specification, defining how much a manufactured part may differ from its nominal size.

A short statement defining the problem, user needs, constraints and intended outcome that guides the development of a solution.

A limit on a design imposed by factors such as budget, materials, time, regulations, safety or available technology.

The measurable standards or requirements used to judge how well a design solution meets the needs set out in the brief.

The systematic comparison of a finished product's performance against its design criteria to judge success and identify improvements.

The processes used to check that products and processes meet specified standards, including inspection, testing and measurement against tolerances.

Assessment of a product's environmental impact across extraction, manufacture, use and disposal, supporting decisions about sustainability and material choice.