Estimation of the Belonging Metric in a Hypothetical System-of-Systems

This paper presents application of an analytical technique that permits assessment of the strength and character of the belonging attribute in systems-of-systems (SoS). We further explore the quantification of this metric using a target system consisting of a migrating waterfowl flock. We used an agent-based model to simulate the formation and evolution of the SoS over time, and we assessed the aerodynamic benefit transferred among flock members in order to compute the belonging value. Results from model runs show that an evaluation of the overall SoS goal emerges organically from the transfer of drag reduction benefits among flock members; that benefits accrue to each individual member system as well as to the collective; and that the degree to which belonging benefits the whole varies depending on initial choices made regarding the architecture of the SoS. As an exploration of the underlying system characteristics, we propose that these results can inform the design of engineered systems.