A Review and Framework for Modeling Complex Engineered System Development Processes

Abstract

Developing complex engineered systems (CES) poses significant challenges for engineers, managers, designers, and businesspeople alike due to the inherent complexity of the systems and contexts involved. Furthermore, experts have expressed great interest in building a foundation of "theories" that describe the patterns underlying how development process qualities shape system outcomes. This article contributes to that foundation in two ways. First, it identifies the core elements of CES development processes (CESDPs) through a literature review. Then, it proposes the ComplEX System Integrated Utilities Model (CESIUM), a novel framework for exploring how numerous system and development process characteristics may affect the performance of CES. CESIUM creates abstract representations of a system architecture, the corresponding engineering organization, and the new product development process through which the organization designs the system. It does so by representing the system as a network of interdependent artifacts designed by agents. Simulated agents iteratively design their artifacts through optimization and share information with other agents, thereby advancing the CES toward a solution. Hence, this article makes it possible for researchers to compare how development process characteristics shape system outcomes.

Designer Selection for Complex Engineering System Design Projects Considering the Disciplines Demanded

“…Therefore, the complex engineering system design problem of this study primarily concerns dealing with the complexity of multidisciplinary engineering system designs. Designing complex engineered systems poses significant challenges for designers alike due to the inherent complexity of the systems and contexts involved [14]. The complex engineering system design problem involves and deals with complex engineering system design issues.…”

Multidisciplinary learning through collective performance favors decentralization

“…Chefs train as sauciers or pastry chefs, then combine their products into the same meals ( 2 , 3 ). Engineering teams draw representatives from various backgrounds, each working on parts that integrate with the others ( 4 , 5 ). But these engines of innovation face an obstacle familiar to many: Disciplinary boundaries make collaborating across fields challenging ( 6 – 11 ).…”