Multistakeholder Dynamic Optimization for Acknowledged System-of-Systems Architecture Selection

Architecture selection for acknowledged System-of-Systems in a dynamic environment, with multiple conflicted and independent stakeholders involved, remains a difficult problem. This paper presents a multistakeholder dynamic optimization method that combines approximate dynamic programming and a transfer contract coordination mechanism through a value function approximation. The method solves a multistage architecture selection problem with an embedded formal, but simple, transfer contract coordination mechanism addressing the resource conflict among the stakeholders. A naval warfare scenario application demonstrates that the solution from the proposed method is close to the optimized solution in an ideal centralized case with an omniscient manager. While initial results show promise, a series of additional investigations on the mathematical formulation, solution strategies, and application tailoring are suggested with an eye toward solidifying the basis for practical use in the selection of the best architecture over a finite horizon for a given resource budget.