Understanding the
Universal Systems
Model
Standard
MSENGR-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) people
2) Knowledge
3) Materials
4) Energy
5) fixed capital(land, buildings, tools, and
equipment
6) 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:
OUTPUT
The “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:
FEEDBACK
Information 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
Process
Output
Sender sends
messages
Information travels
across airways
Receiver gets
messages
Feedback
A conversation takes place
Let’s look at some examples.
Structures
Input
Materials, plans,
tools, time, people,
energy, $
Process
Output
Construction
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
Feedback
Response of consumers
Output
Finished product
Let’s look at some examples.
Computers
Input
Process
People, energy,
tools (mouse,
keyboard, server)
Moving the mouse,
typing, information
being converted
Feedback
Surfing, reading, dancing,
frustration, hurting eyes
Output
Document, heat,
music, visuals
Explain the braking system on a
car/truck.
•
•
•
•
Input
Process
Output
Feedback
Native American Weaponry
Paleo Indians first they used large spears
Input
Process
Output
Feedback
Native American Weaponry
Later, the Woodland Indians used bows.
Input
Process
Output
Feedback
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 approval
2. Construct your catapult
3. 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/1760
www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/cms/lib/NC01001395/Centricity/Do
main/1555/3.03_Universal_Systems_Model.pdf
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-parts/brakes/braketypes/brake.htm
http://www.speroforum.com/a/IXNDUKAEHB9/62784Ancient-humans-came-to-North-America-earlier-thanpreviously-thought#.U-y-2_ldXAw
http://www.museum.state.il.us/muslink/nat_amer/pre/h
tmls/w_weapons.html
http://www.allonrobots.com/vex-robotics.html