Systems thinking ontology of emergent properties for complex engineering systems

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a developed ontology of emergent properties characterizing the emergent behavior of complex engineering systems, which is the emergence of greater functionality of the overall system compared to the sum of the functionalities of system components. The ontology is based on the systems thinking approach used in systems architecture, one of the key points to consider in the conceptual design of engineering systems and used to manage the complexity of systems. Firstly, in the paper, research attributes and the adaptation of the term “ontology” for systems thinking are given. Secondly, the coverage of analyzed literature sources in the description of the literature search is demonstrated. Thirdly, the developed ontology consisting of semantics and relationships of systems emergent properties is presented. The proposed ontology is followed by highlighting its possible systems engineering applications. Finally, in conclusion, the benefits of the developed ontology are mentioned. Overall, the current paper combines aspects of systems engineering with key elements of the design of complex systems.