We are designing an electrical system in which the two primary sub-systems work in a manner such that the first one controls the power for the second one (and handles some primary tasks), and the second sub-system is then responsible for more advanced tasks.
Now, there is a common terminology that is used in similar systems: master-slave architecture or relationship. However, in a master-slave relationship, the master not only has the "control", it also has more "power" and do the more advanced tasks. In our case, the first system has "control", but is not "powerful" enough to do advanced tasks. That is, in our case, the first system is more of a "gatekeeper" rather than a "master".
What would be a proper terminology for such systems or relationships?
The question, while being asked for a specific case, is general and is asking about such relationships in general, and not necessarily engineering systems.
PS:
In case someone points out, I'm asking this here and not some Engineering forum, because we need a new term for it, which does not formally exist in engineering circles.
Best Answer
Client-Agent would fit the general pattern of what you describe.
The client gives requests and commands, and perhaps handles basic tasks that they're capable of.
The agent acts, that is, carries out more complex tasks when requests come from the client.
The metaphor is strong. Clients commonly hire agents who work for them in law and real estate. The power of choice resides with the client, but the power of expertise and (in more complex cases) the ability to act rests with the agent.