Sequence of Overlapping Coupling Tasks in Concurrent Development Process

Overlapping is introduced into the research of coupling tasks in concurrent product development process. With this way, concurrent product development process can be optimized, and product development cycle can be cut down. During research of overlapping coupling tasks, sequence of upstream and downstream is one of the most important factors to influence the number of iterations, the quantity of exchange information between tasks, the period of development, and the cost from development process. The process model of overlapping coupling tasks is built with structure design matrix. It can simulate the period of concurrent product development process, and get the duration of iteration process. Based on the process model, Gaussian elimination solution and iteration character of coupling tasks are taken into account, and the method to decide the upstream downstream sequence of overlapping coupling tasks is developed. Finally, the method is validated by an engineering example from a certain type of Turbochargers' development project.