Large-Scale Complex Systems [chapter]

Florin-Gheorghe Filip, Kauko Leiviskä
2009 Springer Handbook of Automation  
There is not yet a universally accepted definition of the large-scale complex systems (LSS) though the LSS movement started more than 40 years ago. However, by convention, one may say that a particular system is a large and complex one if it possesses one or several characteristic features. For example, according to Tomovic [36.1], the set of LSS characteristics includes the structure of interconnected subsystems and the presence of multiple objectives, which, sometimes, are vague and even
more » ... icting. A similar viewpoint is proposed by Mahmoud, who describes a LSS as [36.2]: A system which is composed of a number of smaller constituents, which serve particular functions, share common resources, are governed by interrelated goals and constraints and, consequently, require more than one controllers. Siljak [36.3] states that a LSS is characterized by its high dimensions (large number of variables), constraints in the information infrastructure, and the presence of uncertainties. At present there are software products on the market which can be utilized Part D 36 620 Part D Automation Design: Theory and Methods for Integration to solve optimization problems with thousands of variables. A good example is Solver.com [36.4]. Complications may still be caused by system non-linearities, time delays, and different time constants, and, especially over recent years, risk sensitivity aspects.
doi:10.1007/978-3-540-78831-7_36 fatcat:w2lzlcadbzc37ebthjr7dzgsge