What does the term 'function' refer to in systems engineering?

In systems engineering, the term 'function' specifically refers to the intended operation of a system. This concept encapsulates what a system is supposed to achieve or the role it plays in its broader context. Each function is aligned with the needs and requirements established during the system's conceptual design phase. By defining functions clearly, engineers can ensure that the system is designed, built, and validated to meet its intended purposes, thus delivering value to stakeholders.

Understanding functions allows for effective decomposition of the system into subsystems and components, each of which contributes to the overall purpose. This definition is crucial for creating system models, performing trade studies, and verifying that the system performs as intended throughout its lifecycle.

On the other hand, while moving is an action that may be part of a system's operation, it does not encompass the full scope of what 'function' means in this context. The assessment of system performance is related to how well a system meets its intended functions, but it is not the definition of 'function' itself. The interaction between components, while important for understanding how a system operates, does not directly define the intended operation or purpose of the system.