370 The Method Framework for Engineering System Architectures
interfaces with specified (types of) external systems. Some example subtype quality char-
acteristics (classification) of physical interoperability include:
Electrical connection• interoperability in terms of electrical plug type, power rat-
ing, number and configurations of prongs, male versus female connection, etc.
Electronic connections• interoperability in terms of number and configuration of
pins, male versus female connection, etc.
Physical connections• interoperability in terms of size and shape of surfaces as
well as the number, type, orientation, and size of physical connectors such as bolts
and screws.
Power connections• interoperability in terms of cable, chain, and ...