Holistic dynamics of systems

Every system transforms energy in operation. Part of it dissipates internally, giving gradual system degradation. This means that mechanical properties change during the system's life, causing an evolution of system properties. Such an evolution also changes the dynamic behaviour and therefore the system condition. Sensitive characteristics with respect to time-dependent system modifications are called symptoms. Special symptoms can be used for system condition assessment. Creating and measuring such symptoms enables the user to determine the residual life of the system under consideration, or its weakest part. As an illustration of the approach of holistic system dynamics, a tall industrial chimney and an offshore platform leg are considered and modelled as a cantilever beam.