# Systems Architecture with Maik Pfingsten

- Show: [The Pragmatic Embedded Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast)
- Published: 2022-10-19
- Length: 43m
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten
- Listen: https://agileembeddedpodcast.com/episodes/systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten-7RPdwPY0

## Summary

Maik Pfingsten, an independent systems engineering professional, explains how to apply model-based systems engineering (MBSE) using SysML to complex embedded systems in safety-critical industries like automotive and medical devices. He argues that defining system boundaries and high-level interfaces early prevents the 'big design up front' pitfalls while allowing for necessary iteration between architecture and prototyping. Pfingsten emphasizes that software behaves differently than hardware or mechanics, requiring specific architectural rigor to manage complexity and ensure safety without relying on impossible zero-failure strategies.

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=0) Introduction: Maik Pfingsten and Systems Engineering Background
- [1:49](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=109) Defining Model-Based Systems Engineering and SysML
- [5:46](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=346) Integrating Agile Techniques and Timeboxing into Architecture
- [13:29](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=809) The Role of System Architects in Early Prototyping Stages
- [17:40](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=1060) Complexity, Team Size, and Software vs. Hardware Failure Modes
- [29:41](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=1781) Iterating Between Models and Physical Prototypes
- [35:29](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-pragmatic-embedded-podcast/2022-10-19-systems-architecture-with-maik-pfingsten#t=2129) Common Mistakes: Ignoring System Boundaries and Overcomplicating Tools

## Topics

- [Mechanical engineering](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/mechanical-engineering)
- [Embedded firmware](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/embedded-firmware)
- [Prototyping & iteration](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/prototyping)
- [Design for manufacturing & NPI](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/design-for-manufacturing)
- [Careers & education](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/engineering-careers-and-education)

## Most relevant to

established companies

## Mentioned

- SysML (other)
- UML (other)
- Matlab (tool)
- Simulink (tool)

## Related episodes from other shows

- [53: Being a Grownup Engineer](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2014-05-28-53-being-a-grownup-engineer) (Embedded.fm)
- [421: Paint the Iceberg Yellow](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2022-07-21-421-paint-the-iceberg-yellow) (Embedded.fm)
- [508: Descartes' Demon](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2025-08-21-508-descartes-demon) (Embedded.fm)
- [290: Rule of Thumbs (Repeat)](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2022-01-07-290-rule-of-thumbs-repeat) (Embedded.fm)
- [53: Being a Grownup Engineer (Repeat)](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/embedded-fm/2016-09-28-53-being-a-grownup-engineer-repeat) (Embedded.fm)

## Citing this page

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