摘要
The concept of a ＂System of Systems＂ （SOS） describes a large system of mul- tiple systems --each capable of independent operation --that have been brought together to provide capabilities beyond those of each individual constituent system. Formulating and solving SoS design problem has become increasingly important, particularly in the aerospace and defense industries, as customers have begun to ask contractors＇ for broad capabilities and solutions rather than for specific individual systems. SoS design problem is determining the appropriate mix of both existing and yet-to-be-designed systems. This paper first defines what constitute a SoS. Next, it summarizes the current state-of-practice of System Engineering, and establishes what needs to be accomplished to perform SoS Engineering. Finally, it describes a multilevel, multistage approach to system of systems design optimization where system design is linked with system allocation along multistage decision making horizon, together with hierarchical mapping from technology space to system response in each system design stage.
