An Algorithm for Integrated Subsystem Embodiment and System Synthesis

Publisher Marketing: Consider the statement, 'A system has two coupled subsystems, one of which dominates the design process. Each subsystem consists of discrete and continuous variables, and is solved using sequential analysis and solution.' To address this type of statement in the design of complex systems, three steps are required, namely, the embodiment of the statement in terms of entities on a computer, the mathematical formulation of subsystem models, and the resulting solution and system synthesis. In complex system decomposition, the subsystems are not isolated, self-supporting entities. Information such as constraints, goals, and design variables may be shared between entities. But many times in engineering problems, full communication and cooperation does not exist, information is incomplete, or one subsystem may dominate the design. Additionally, these engineering problems give rise to mathematical models involving nonlinear functions of both discrete and continuous design variables. In this dissertation an algorithm is developed to handle these types of scenarios for the domain-independent integration of subsystem embodiment, coordination, and system synthesis using constructs from Decision-Based Design, Game Theory, and Multidisciplinary Design Optimization. Implementation of the concept in this dissertation involves testing of the hypotheses using example problems and a motivating case study involving the design of a subsonic passenger aircraft. Contributor Bio:  Lewis, Kemper A Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University at Buffalo - SUNY, Kemper Lewis teaches and conducts research in the areas of mechanical design, system optimization, and decision modeling. As a researcher and consultant, he has worked with companies and federal agencies on a wide range of engineering design problems including turbine engine product and process design; optimization of industrial gas systems; air and ground vehicle design; innovation in consumer product design; and manufacturing process control for thin film resistors, heat exchangers, and medical electronics. Dr. Lewis received his B. S. in mechanical engineering and B. A. in Mathematics from Duke University and his M. S., and Ph. D. degrees in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He has served as associate editor of the ASME Journal of Mechanical Design, on the ASME Design Automation Executive Committee, and on the National Academies Panel on Benchmarking the Research Competitiveness of the United States in Mechanical Engineering. He has also served as the Executive Director of the New York State Center for Engineering Design and Industrial Innovation. Dr. Lewis has received awards in recognition of his teaching and research from the Society of Automotive Engineers, the American Society for Engineering Education, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the National Science Foundation.