Conquer complexity with systems engineering, as illustrated by EAGLE (a Multi-Object Adaptive Optics IFU Spectrograph)

摘要

This paper illustrates how the design of an instrument such as the Extremely Large Adaptive Telescope for GaLaxy Evolution (EAGLE) instrument can be simplified. EAGLE is a Wide Field Multi Object Integral Field Unit Spectrometer aimed as a cornerstone instrument for the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT). The instrument is rich in capabilities and will require Adaptive Optics to ensure that the expected spatial resolution (typically 15 times finer than that of a seeing limited instrument) can be met. The complexities introduced by the need to include a Multi-Object Adaptive Optics system (MOAO) can be simplified by using well defined systems engineering processes. These processes include the capturing, analysis and flow down of requirements, functional and performance analysis and an integrated system design approach. In this paper we will also show by example why the discipline imposed by the UK ATC formal systems engineering process is necessary, especially given that projects such as EAGLE also have to deal with the complexities of international collaborations. It also illustrates how the process promotes innovation and creativity.