The Connection Between Control Theory, Linear Systems Theory, and Regenerative Engineering Systems engineers are experts

in the systems approach: scope, feasibility, reliability, and maintenance. They depend on that, control theory, and linear systems theory as a framework for practical problem solving and systems design. The twin Shuttle disasters, caused by two distinct problems, were actually preventable accidents in the regenerative framework. The fact they happened during a period of human history where the systems approach dominates clearly shows that process is insufficient to address human needs. Also, the fact we currently have a notion of sustainability and have difficulty implementing it indicates a need for an integrative discipline which conceptually and practically unifies the highly diverse engineering areas present today. The answer which addresses both types of needs is regenerative engineering. A novel reliability framework based on discipline expert analysis and a heuristic guide for calculating catastrophic system failure is part of this new required discipline. The other part is soundly based in John Hardman's regenerative leadership framework. Essentially, his ideas were successfully imported and appropriately mapped onto the systems approach modifying it to include a fifth component: regeneration. That word, by itself, is insufficient to describe the process. The regenerative engineering process is a 54 iterative-recursive plan guaranteed to produced optimal results when conscientiously applied with all stated criteria. The 'classic' modern example is the Marshmallow Challenge where teams compete with each other to construct the tallest free-standing, marshmallow supporting, structure in 18 minutes with only tape and 20 pieces of uncooked spaghetti. For those curious readers, the word optimal above is defined by two balanced criteria: environmental needs and human needs. For those skeptical readers, it is suggested they attempt the Marshmallow Challenge within the allotted time and examine the results. Rarely can teams do better than children which indicates something is lost during the modern maturation process which is critical to regenerative engineering: fluid thinking. You cannot teach fluid thinking; you are born with the capacity. Again, there seem to be factors diminishing this capacity in our modern world as individuals approach adulthood. How can we remediate this situation addressing all needs indicated above? 1. recognize the crucial need for regenerative engineering as core discipline 2. proactively support regenerative engineering in all engineering curricula 3. include a regenerative engineer on every team for every major project/initiative 4. encourage all existing engineering disciplines to embrace the associated reliability framework The question becomes not if we should or shouldn't implement the plan above, but rather how quickly we can implement it such that we can avert global catastrophic ecosystems/infrastructure meltdown. Salvatore Micheal, RIO cofounder, 2012/OCT/04