Archives

Value-driven engineering design: lessons learned from the road construction equipment industry

ABSTRACT Value models, in form of economical optimization functions, are often proposed to frontload engineering design activities. However, literature argues that, when qualitative data and assumptions prevail, a qualitative assessment of the ‘goodness’ of a design is preferable against a numerical (and monetary-based) encoding of preferences. This paper explores how a model-based approach can support […]

Read More

Experimenting the use of Value Models as Boundary Objects in Conceptual PSS Design

ABSTRACT The paper presents the results of experimental activities aiming at investigating the role of ‘value models’ as ‘boundary objects’ that facilitate cross-functional discussions in the PSS conceptual design phase. The experiment featured 6 separate sessions involving a total of 22 students in the final year of three different Master Programmes. In the sessions participants […]

Read More

Boundary objects for PSS Design

ABSTRACT In PSS design, hardware and service developers often have different objectives. Lacking to communicate and negotiate them across boundaries might lead to solutions unable to generate market shares and long-term profitability. This paper aims to contribute to the definition of ‘boundary objects’ that facilitate the sharing of knowledge between members of cross-functional teams engaged […]

Read More

Value Innovation projects 2015

On Oct. 19th and 20th students in the MT2536 Value Innovation course had the opportunity to present the results of their real-life projects, conducted in collaboration with industrial partners and organizations. All projects have the objective to develop innovative products/services able to create value for their customers and users, while at the same time reducing […]

Read More

International Conference on Engineering Design 2015

ICED was back to Italy this summer, 34 years after it kicked off in Rome in 1981. PDRL was well represented with 6 papers, covering a range of topics under the common denominator of supporting innovation and engineering activities “in real life”. See below for more info on our contributions to ICED’15.   MODEL BASED DECISION […]

Read More