Advanced Systems and Control Engineering: Shaping the Future of Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation applications are experiencing explosive growth in modern technology across all industries. Advanced systems and control engineering works at the intersection of operational technology and information technology, making it an important feature in many of these new applications.

Systems and control engineers design the regulators that control the behavior of a device or process. A simple example of this type of technology is the thermostat in your home. A sensor detects the temperature in your house and automatically adjusts the heating or cooling system until it reaches the temperature you’ve set.¹ Advanced systems and control engineering includes much more complicated projects, such as missile guidance systems, distribution and robotics, manufacturing facilities and power generation.¹

Read on to explore how advanced control engineering is helping to shape the future of technology.

Advanced Control Engineering

A control system controls a physical process. It receives an input, processes it, and then generates an appropriate output. Control engineering involves designing, analyzing, optimizing and implementing control systems so that they operate safely and at their best.²

Systems and control engineers use feedback loops to actuate systems. In open-loop systems, the output is not used to control the system. In closed-loop systems, the output is used to adjust the input. All control engineering systems are either open- or closed-loop.²

Engineers use various techniques to control these systems:²

• Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) techniques use a combination of three different controllers to optimize results
• The state space technique uses variables such as position, speed and acceleration to control outputs
• Optimal control systems combine techniques to create systems that are efficient and effective

Systems Engineering Innovations

Systems engineering is a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on designing, integrating and managing complex systems from conception through retirement. In this context, a system includes all of the components that function together—such as hardware, software, facilities, personnel, processes and procedures—to meet a need.³

Systems engineers have developed innovative approaches to engineering, including model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and systems of systems (SoS).

Model-Based Systems Engineering

In contrast to the text-based and manual processes used by traditional engineers, systems engineers often use digital models and simulations to create systems. MBSE is capable of providing visual and interactive models of complex systems. It represents the components of the system as well as the connections between them.⁴

The interactive nature of MBSE makes it more accurate and efficient than earlier methods. Each model serves as a single source of truth and provides traceability. All relevant stakeholders work with the model and, therefore, the same information. Changes are immediately reflected in the model and widely distributed.⁴

Working with a virtual model makes it significantly easier to make changes and correct issues. This efficiency reduces the time and costs associated with developing new systems. This is particularly important for creating complex systems that are comprised of smaller systems. The MBSE can graphically illustrate relationships and dependencies within and between systems.⁴

System of Systems

In a system of systems (SoS), multiple independent systems work together to form a larger, more complex system that can achieve results that no single one of the smaller systems can achieve on its own.⁵ Examples of common SoS include transportation and the power grid. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) also widely uses SoS to highlight spontaneous interconnection between systems that didn't previously appear related to one other.⁵

Emerging Technologies in Control Systems

New technologies are driving exciting innovations in control systems. These rapid advancements provide systems and control engineers with opportunities and challenges alike.

Advanced Technologies

AI is a major aspect of new control system technologies. Autonomous control systems can operate for an extended period of time without human intervention. AI and machine learning enable modern autonomous control systems to learn from experience and make improvements based on what they’ve learned.⁶

Advancements in wireless technology are behind networked control systems. In these systems, sensing and actuation signals are transmitted throughout a system or multiple systems over a shared network. Networked systems often rely heavily on control systems embedded in devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT). These systems allow organizations to track and manage complicated systems—such as inventory—easily, at every stage of the supply chain.⁷

Cyber-physical systems integrate the cyber and physical world through computation, control, analytics and networking. Examples of cyber-physical systems include medical devices that monitor patient health and dispense medication, smart buildings that optimize energy efficiency and human comfort, and smart manufacturing facilities that improve productivity.⁸

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the promise of new technology that has emerged from control engineering research, there are significant challenges in the field, including cybersecurity, complexity and interoperability.

Cybersecurity

Cyber threats and cybersecurity attacks are an increasing concern in all industries. Due to their complexity, advanced control systems can open up increased attack surfaces. Hackers can use unsecured components of networked systems to obtain access to sensitive data and critical systems. Engineers are using new technology to improve security through AI, machine learning and data analytics.⁹

Complexity

Today’s systems are more complex than ever and often include numerous disciplines, hardware, software and stakeholders. As this complexity continues to grow, it becomes more difficult to manage the systems. Model-based systems engineering methods are helping engineers model and simulate these complex environments more realistically, in order to optimize them.¹⁰

Interoperability

Interoperability refers to the ability of a system’s components to communicate with each other and exchange data. The more components there are, the more likely engineers are to face interoperability issues. To ensure interoperability, engineers have to develop shared protocols and data storage within a system.¹¹

Lead the Future of Systems and Control Engineering

To stay ahead of rapidly evolving technological complexities, earn the online MS in Systems and Control Engineering from the Case School of Engineering. Led by an esteemed faculty of experts, the robust curriculum instills a comprehensive understanding of complex systems, control theory, optimization techniques and advanced mathematical modeling.

CWRU combines academic excellence with at-home convenience. This flexible online program is designed for working professionals looking to expand their networks and advance into positions of leadership.

Increase your career potential without missing a beat at work or at home. Start today by scheduling a call with an admissions outreach advisor.