CO²DE: a decision support system for collaborative design

Abstract

This paper introduces an easy-to-use decision support system for COllabOrative DEsign named CO 2 DE. We examine the system particularly for the design concept filtering and selection stages considering the importance of conceptual design although the proposed framework can facilitate a design task, which is recurrent in many design phases. First, the paper briefly reviews what methods can be applicable to each step of the conceptual design process, and then describes the prerequisites for mathematical methodbased design concept filtering and selection processes. Secondly, detailed explanation about the process and main modules of the proposed system are provided with a small satellite design case study focusing on (1) what the inputs and outputs of each module are, (2) what information should be specified by design participants, and (3) what results can be obtained from the system. Thirdly, the paper discusses the advantages/limitations of the system and the main difficulties and barriers for the future implementation. Finally, the paper provides a useful guideline to those who want to develop a decision support system for collaborative design by which they can minimise the need for critical refinement and serious modifications of the design at the subsequent design phase.

Design verification and validation in product lifecycle

“…A functional structure can be validated by considering both logical and physical dependencies and confirming matching inputs and outputs among sub-functions [65]. Several flow analysis methods such as bond graph and Petri nets [66] and modularity methods such as function structure heuristic method [67], design structure matrix [68] and modular function deployment [69] are applicable to the verification and validation of functional structures.…”

Collaborative engineering among designers with different preferences: Application of the preference set–based design to the design problem of an automotive front-side frame

“…The participants such as designers or design managers from different disciplines, manufacturers, suppliers, and marketing staff can simultaneously participate in the development of a product, allowing them to communicate and engage in discussions (Wu et al, 2007). Thus, a design process can be called a ''collaborative design'' process (Kim and Xirouchakis, 2010). As mentioned above, the engineering philosophy has recently been shifted from CE to collaborative engineering among the respective areas of expertise in a design space.…”

Supplier selection problem revisited from the perspective of product configuration

“…It is not only creating something new (creative, innovative design), but also modifying or rearranging something that pre-exist(s) for improvement (adaptive, selection design) (Kim and Xirouchakis 2008). In particular, the performance of electronic products such as mobile phones and computers is highly dependent on the quality of each subsystem (in this article, we use 'subsystems' as the most general term for all sub-assemblies, modules, components, and parts) which will be developed and provided (mainly by suppliers) while there is little change in the list of necessary subsystems comprising a product.…”