Requirements for a feasibility assessment for multi-attribute optimisation techniques: A system of systems engineering approach

To achieve economic sustainability, automotive manufacturers must implement efficient design methods. One method is to use advanced optimisation and CAE techniques early in the development process. However, new processes must be feasible within the live design environment. In this paper, the requirements for the assessment of the feasibility of Multi-Attribute Optimisation processes are examined. A System of Systems Engineering approach is adopted to allow more elements of the design environment to be considered. This approach shows that the requirements for an optimisation process may require changes in the surrounding design systems. The assessment of feasibility should, therefore, not be based on the current design system but on the change in performance of the design system. The approach provides an increased understanding of the dynamic environment, albeit at the cost of increased complexity of assessment.