Designing value-robust circular systems through changeability: a framework with case studies

Post by: Tobias Larsson
23rd May 2025
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Abstract

Increasing sustainability expectations requires support for the design of systems that are reactive in minimizing potential negative impact and proactive in guiding engineering decision-making toward more value-robust long-term decisions. This article identifies a gap in the methodological support for the design of circular systems, building on the hypothesis that computer-based simulation models will drive the development of more value-robust systems designed to behave positively in a changeable operational environment during the whole lifecycle. The article presents a framework for value-robust circular systems design, complementing the current approaches for circular design aimed at increasing decision-makers’ awareness about the complexity of circular systems to be designed. The framework is theoretically described and demonstrated through its applications in four case studies in the field of construction machinery investigating new circular solutions for the future of mining, quarrying and road construction. The framework supports the development of more resilient and sustainable systems, strengthening the feedback loop between exploring new technologies, proposing innovative concepts and evaluating system performance.

Keywords

Value-Driven Design, Value Robustness, Circularity, Complex Systems, Uncertainty, Simulations

Reference

Bertoni A, Machchhar RJ, Toller Mélen C, Scurati GW, Bertoni M. Designing value-robust circular systems through changeability: a framework with case studies. Design Science. 2025;11:e15. doi:10.1017/dsj.2025.11

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Categories: Publications, Research

Tagged: Alessandro Bertoni, aspect, carl toller, Circularity, Complex Systems, Giulia Wally Scurati, mdd, Raj Machchhar, SDD, simulations, TRUST-SOS, Uncertainty, Value robustness, value-driven design, Volvo CE