Abstract: Nam P. Suh focussed his axiomatic design theories on methods to understand and deal with complexity. Suh is a well-respected designer and researcher in the fields of manufacturing and composite materials. He is best known for his systems that aim to speed up and simplify the process of design for manufacturing. The 'axioms' in axiomatic design refer to a process to help engineers reduce design specifications down to their simplest components, so that the engineers can produce the simplest possible solution to a problem. Complexity, besides being a key area of burgeoning research in disciplines interested in complex systems and chaos theory (like computer science and physics), is a complicating factor in engineering design that many engineers find difficult to overcome. Suh's multidisciplinary exploration of complex systems is meant to eliminate much of the confusion and allow engineers to accommodate complexity within simple, elegant design solutions.

Abstract: By superposing and gluing models, the Arlequin method offers an extended modelling framework for the design of engineering structures. This paper aims at developing the numerical aspects of the approach and at showing how it can be used with great flexibility and in a consistent manner to change locally a global mechanical model. The capabilities of the Arlequin method and the effectiveness of the implemented numerical tools are exemplified by 1-D, 2-D and 3-D numerical applications.

Abstract: Evolutionary multicriteria optimization has traditionally concentrated on problems comprising 2 or 3 objectives. While engineering design problems can often be conveniently formulated as multiobjective optimization problems, these often comprise a relatively large number of objectives. Such problems pose new challenges for algorithm design, visualisation and implementation. Each of these three topics is addressed. Progressive articulation of design preferences is demonstrated to assist in reducing the region of interest for the search and, thereby, simplified the problem. Parallel coordinates have proved a useful tool for visualising many objectives in a two-dimensional graph and the computational grid and wireless Personal Digital Assistants offer technological solutions to implementation difficulties arising in complex system design.

Abstract: CAD has been traditionally used to assist in engineering design and modeling for representation, analysis and manufacturing. Advances in Information Technology and in Biomedicine have created new uses for CAD with many novel and important biomedical applications, particularly tissue engineering in which CAD based bio-tissue informatics model provides critical information of tissue biological, biophysical, and biochemical properties for modeling, design, and fabrication of complex tissue substitutes. This paper will present some salient advances of bio-CAD modeling and application in computer-aided tissue engineering, including biomimetic design, analysis, simulation and freeform fabrication of tissue engineered substitutes. Overview of computer-aided tissue engineering will be given. Methodology to generate bio-CAD models from high resolution non-invasive imaging, the medical imaging process and the 3D reconstruction technique will be described. Enabling state-of-the-art computer software in assisting 3D reconstruction and in bio-modeling development will be introduced. Utilization of the bio-CAD model for the description and representation of the morphology, heterogeneity, and organizational structure of tissue anatomy, and the generation of bio-blueprint modeling will also be presented.

Abstract: In a recent publication, we presented a new multiobjective decision-making tool for use in conceptual engineering design. In the present paper, we provide important developments that support the next phase in the evolution of the tool. These developments, together with those of our previous work, provide a concept selection approach that capitalizes on the benefits of computational optimization. Specifically, the new approach uses the efficiency and effectiveness of optimization to rapidly compare numerous designs, and characterize the tradeoff properties within the multiobjective design space. As such, the new approach differs significantly from traditional (non-optimization based) concept selection approaches where, comparatively speaking, significant time is often spent evaluating only a few points in the design space. Under the new approach, design concepts are evaluated using a so-calleds-Pareto frontier; this frontier originates from the Pareto frontiers of various concepts, and is the Pareto frontier for thesetof design concepts. An important characteristic of the s-Pareto frontier is that it provides a foundation for analyzing tradeoffs between design objectives and the tradeoffs between design concepts. The new developments presented in this paper include; (i) the notion ofminimally representingthe s-Pareto frontier, (ii) the quantification of concept goodness using s-Pareto frontiers, (iii) the development of an interactive design space exploration approach that can be used to visualizen-dimensional s-Pareto frontiers, and (iv) s-Pareto frontier-based approaches for considering uncertainty in concept selection. Simple structural examples are presented that illustrate representative applications of the proposed method.

Abstract: The goal of this article has been to discuss next generation learning environments and next generation training technologies as well as the learning and design challenges faced in using these. Specifically, we discuss theoretical and design principles of constructivist learning environments and how advanced technologies can potentially support meeting these principles as well as the challenges they may pose to various types of designers, instructional, game, graphic and programming. To address methods for designing complex environments, we also address the use of methodologies and authoring systems with various tools to support the design process. In this context, to illustrate how tools can be used to help instructional design teams manage the complexities of developing for these environments. As an example, we discuss one tool,IIPI CREATE, that supports this process and organizes the development process

Abstract: Early in the engineering design cycle, it is difficult to quantify product reliability or compliance to performance targets due to insufficient data or information to model uncertainties. Probability theory can not be therefore, used. Design decisions are usually, based on fuzzy information that is vague, imprecise qualitative, linguistic or incomplete. Recently, evidence theory has been proposed to handle uncertainty with limited information as an alternative to probability theory. In this paper, a computationally efficient design optimization method is proposed based on evidence theory, which can handle a mixture of epistemic and random uncertainties. It quickly identifies the vicinity of the optimal point and the active constraints by moving a hyper-ellipse in the original design space, using a reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) algorithm. Subsequently, a derivative-free optimizer calculates the evidence-based optimum, starting from the close-by RBDO optimum, considering only the identified active constraints. The computational cost is kept low by first moving to the vicinity of the optimum quickly and subsequently using local surrogate models of the active constraints only. Two examples demonstrate the proposed evidence-based design optimization method.Copyright © 2005 by ASME

Abstract: This paper describes the transformation of an existing set of heterogeneous product knowledge into a coherent design repository that supports product design knowledge archival and web-based search, display, and design model and tool generation. Guided by design theory, existing product information was analyzed and compared against desired outputs to ascertain what information management structure was needed to produce design resources pertinent to the design process. Several test products were catalogued to determine what information was essential without being redundant in representation. This set allowed for the creation of a novel single point of entry application for product information and the development of a relational database for design knowledge archival. Web services were then implemented to support design knowledge retrieval through search, browse, and real-time design tool generation. Further explored in this paper are the fundamental enabling technologies of the design repository system. Additionally, repository-generated design tools are scrutinized alongside human-generated design tools for validation. Through this process researchers have been able to improve the way in which artifact data are gathered, archived, distributed and used.

Abstract: The present study focuses on the relationship between the acquisition of design knowledge by novice design students and the quality of their designs. Design learning is typically based on action and reflection. Knowledge of solution processes, being part of this reflection, is found to be crucial in monitoring and controlling the design process and in reaching an optimal, creative result. The studies described in this article suggest a close relationship between the amount of process knowledge – knowledge of managing and monitoring the solution finding process – reported by novice designers, and the creativity of the designed product.

Abstract: In 1858, Oliver Wendell Holmes published a famous poem entitled The Deacon's Masterpiece or the Wonderful One-Hoss Shay. The distinctive feature of the carriage is that all its structural components degrade in such a way that they last a hundred years to a day, then fail concurrently. Underlying Holmes's poem is a nontrivial design question that is discussed in this paper. To first order, the question can he formulated as follows: How should a system design lifetime be specified, given its underlying components' durability? Or, conversely, how should the components in a system be sized given the system's intended duration of operation? A translation is undertaken of Holmes's work into engineering parlance, both his sound engineering judgment and his misconception about engineering design. Then, beyond the Holmes' example of durability through structural integrity, this paper makes the case for flexibility as an essential attribute for complex engineering design that can bring about its durability. It is hoped that this paper is read as an invitation to academics in engineering disciplines and practitioners to contribute principles and methodologies for embedding flexibility in the design of complex engineering systems.

Abstract: Published models of the engineering design process are widely available and often illustrated for students with a block diagram showing design as sequential and iterative. Here we examine experts' conceptions of the design process in relation to a model synthesized from several introductory engineering textbooks. How do experts' conceptions compare? What might they see as alternative accounts? We present preliminary results from an investigation of practicing engineers (n=19) who were asked to think aloud while reading a description of this "textbook" model, as well as draw their idea of the engineering design process and choose descriptors of design. Only 3 participants were found to have a view in major disagreement with the model, yet 7 drew alternative types of diagrams, and the experts as a whole emphasized problem scoping and communication. We focus especially on the case of one engineer who commented extensively on communication, articulating a view of engineering design as open, multi-participant, and multidisciplinary, with implications for how to conceptualize expertise in engineering problem solving.

Abstract: In recent years, there has been considerable progress in the optimization of cast parts with respect to strength, stiffness, and frequency. Here, topology optimization has been the most important tool in finding the optimal features of a cast part, such as optimal cross-section or number and arrangement of ribs. An optimization process with integrated topology optimization has been used very successfully at Adam Opel AG in recent years, and many components have been optimized. This two-paper review gives an overview of the application and experience in this area. This is the first part of a two-paper review of optimization of cast parts.Here, we want to focus on the application of the original topology optimization codes, which do not take manufacturing constraints for cast parts into account. Additionally, the role of shape optimization as a fine-tuning tool will be briefly analyzed and discussed.

Abstract: Few computational tools exist to assist designers during the conceptual phase of design, and design success is often heavily weighted on personal experience and innate ability. Many well-known methods (e.g. brainstorming, intrinsic and extrinsic searches, and morphological analysis) are designed to stimulate a designer's creativity, but ultimately still rely heavily on individual bias and experience. Under the premise that quality designs comes from experienced designers, experience in the form of design knowledge is extracted from existing products and stored for reuse in a web-based repository. This paper presents a concept generation algorithm that utilizes the Functional Basis and a web-based repository of existing design knowledge to generate and rank viable conceptual design variants. This tool is intended to augment traditional conceptual design phase activities and produce numerous feasible concepts early in the design process.

Abstract: Arrow’s theorem poses limits to the translation of the different preference orders on a set of options into a single preference order. In this paper, I argue, against opinions to the contrary, that Arrow’s theorem applies fully to multi-criteria decision problems as they occur in engineering design, making solution methods to such problems subject to the theorem’s negative result. Discussing the meaning and consequences for engineering design, I review the solution methods to such problems presented in the engineering design literature in the light of the theorem. It appears that underlying such methods is a mix-up of two fundamentally different problem definitions, as the theory of multi-attribute preferences, which is often presented as an adequate approach for engineering design, in fact fails to address the Arrowian multi-criteria problem. Finally, I suggest ways how engineering design might adopt results from discussions of Arrow’s theorem elsewhere in resolving its multi-criteria decision problems.

Abstract: Construction contractors have significant constructability expertise to contribute to the design process of projects. To utilize this expertise most effectively, the right information must be made available to the design team at the proper point in time and at the appropriate level of detail. Current methods for utilizing construction knowledge in design have made significant advances to improving projects. However, they are typically rudimentary: unstructured, not very efficient, and rely heavily on reviews. Organizing constructability information according to its use in the design process will allow project teams to take the best advantage of the construction expertise. This paper introduces a model for organizing constructability information based on timing and levels of detail. The model differs from current approaches because of this focus. How the model was developed is described. It is tested on six case study projects to assess applicability on different projects. An illustrative example is provid...

Abstract: The complexity of modern product realization processes requires collaborative work of engineering teams from different disciplines. We apply principles from game theory to model the relationships between engineering teams and facilitate collaborative decision making. In order to maintain design freedom in the early stages of product realization so that engineering teams in the later stages can adjust their decisions while still maintaining feasibility, we postulate the use of design capability indices to facilitate the teams making a ranged set of decisions, instead of specific ones. The effect of game theoretic principles and design capability indices on design freedom and therefore on the design solutions is also investigated. An electronic package design and analysis scenario is used to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method.

Abstract: Poor design and documentation quality has been identified as being a major factor in reducing the overall performance and efficiency of construction projects as well as being directly responsible for many projects running over budget, over time and being plagued with rework, variations and disputation. Recent studies show that this problem is not only widespread, but continues to get worse in spite of the negative impact it’s having on the construction industry. In a similar way, project management deficiencies have also been shown to have a negative impact on construction process efficiency. However, by adapting Lean Production principles and viewing construction in terms of “production” as opposed to “transformation”, the concept of Lean Construction has been promoted as being successful in improving overall construction process efficiency, by improving the management of construction project operations. Whilst recent studies into design and documentation quality problems have focused on a variety of external factors (ie. design fees, design time, procurement methodology, ICT, etc.), as being the key to improving overall quality, this paper investigates whether the way in which the design process is managed, may provide more immediate and easily measurable results. Lean Design Management (LDM)—the introduction of “lean production” principles to the process of design—has been promoted as a new paradigm by which the design process can be made more efficient and better quality outcomes achieved. As part of an ongoing study into “theory-based lean project and production management”, this paper reviews the LDM approach to determine how new it really is and whether its implementation has the potential to achieve the design and documentation quality improvements required.

Abstract: Decisions are an important part of Concurrent Engineering and engineering design in general. Accordingly, more attention should be paid to the means and methods for making these decisions. In this article, a utility-based decision support method for the selection of an engineering design is presented. The utility-based selection decision support problem (u-sDSP) is a synthesized construct that facilitates selection decisions involving trade-offs among multiple, conflicting attributes and mitigation of risk associated with uncertain performance with respect to the attributes considered. The negative impact of unnecessary iterations on the product development cycle is reduced via the assurance of preference-consistent outcomes. Specifically, utility theory provides a mathematically rigorous means of clarifying and capturing designer preferences as well as identifying a preferred alternative in the context of stochastic uncertainty, while the selection decision support problem (DSP) - the construct within which utility theory is employed - facilitates the effective use of engineering judgment for (1) formulating and bounding decisions and (2) establishing a proper context. Application of the u-sDSP is illustrated with an example from rapid prototyping (RP), in which the goal is to select the appropriate technology and material combinations for testing the snap-fit design of a light switch cover plate assembly.

Abstract: A paradigm shift is underway in which the classical materials selection approach in engineering design is being replaced by the design of material structure and processing paths on a hierarchy of length scales for multifunctional performance requirements In this paper, the focus is on designing mesoscopic material topology—the spatial arrangement of solid phases and voids on length scales larger than microstructures but smaller than the characteristic dimensions of an overall product A robust topology design method is presented for designing materials on mesoscopic scales by topologically and parametrically tailoring them to achieve properties that are superior to those of standard or heuristic designs, customized for large-scale applications, and less sensitive to imperfections in the material Imperfections are observed regularly in cellular material mesostructure and other classes of materials because of the stochastic influence of feasible processing paths The robust topology design method allows us to consider these imperfections explicitly in a materials design process As part of the method, guidelines are established for modeling dimensional and topological imperfections, such as tolerances and cracked cell walls, as deviations from intended material structure Also, as part of the method,

Abstract: A design decomposition-integration model, named COPE, is proposed in which Axiomatic Design Matrices (DM) map Functional Requirements to Design Parameters while Design Structure Matrices (DSM) provide structured representation of the system development context. In COPE, the DM and the DSM co-evolve. Traversing between the two types of matrices allows for some control in the application of the system knowledge which surrounds the decision making process and the definition of the system architecture. It is argued that this approach describes better the design process of complex products which is constrained by the need to utilise existing manufacturing processes, to apply discrete technological innovations and to accommodate work-share and supply chain agreements. Presented is an industrial case study which demonstrated the feasibility of the model. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 8: 29–40, 2005