Multiattribute design optimization and concurrent engineering

Abstract

The approach to concurrent design described in this chapter is motivated by the observation that, despite the progress made by ‘design for X’ approaches, engineering designs are ultimately evaluated with respect to many criteria. We assert that the design process should be driven by simultaneous consideration of multiple criteria, rather than evaluation of a single criterion at each stage of the design process with modification along the way. Recognizing the need to satisfy the ultimate evaluator of designs, the customer, Cook defines quality as ‘net value of product to society’ (1991a). Cook (1991b) and Cook and DeVor (1991) construct a model for evaluating the quality of a product based on the value to the customer as well as cost. By listening to the ‘voice of the customer’, the ‘house of quality’ approach attempts to integrate customer desires into the design process (Hauser and Clausing, 1988). The voice of the customer defines certain design criteria, or attributes, to be considered. These attributes are related to the engineering domain as performance criteria through quality function deployment (Sullivan, 1986; Clausing and Pugh, 1991). Further analysis of these desired performance criteria leads to identification of relevant decision parameters over which designers have direct control. For example, the customer attribute of ‘quieter car’ may be translated into the performance goal of low engine noise.