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Using models as boundary objects in early design negotiations: analysis and implications for decision support systems

Abstract One common strategy to include more downstream lifecycle dimensions in early design is to enrich modelling and simulation techniques embedded in decision support systems. However, downstream dimensions are difficult to trade against more traditional engineering objectives. This research studied through individual interviews how six disciplines use models to negotiate design trade-offs. References to models […]

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Special Issue “Model-Based Systems Engineering and Product Service Systems Design”

Dr Alessandro Bertoni togehter with Dr Massimo Panarotto (PDRL Alumni, now Chalmers) are guest editors of the MDPI Systems Journal Special Issue “Model-Based Systems Engineering and Product Service Systems Design“. This Special Issue particularly looks forward to articles presenting, among others: New methods for MBSE in PSS design; Empirical studies on MBSE implementation in an […]

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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 […]

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Value-driven simulation: thinking together through simulation in early engineering design

ABSTRACT The topic of ‘design for value’ has lately attracted a great deal of attention within the engineering design community. ‘Predicting’ the value of a future solution is however difficult, especially in early design phases. Modelling and simulation is believed to be able to support this challenging task. A simulation process for value-driven engineering design […]

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Maturity of Models in a Multi-Model Decision Support System

Abstract To reduce uncertainty in decisions, engineers experiment with models, such as, exploring what-if scenarios, and thus increase knowledge. Still, because modelling is an idealisation of reality, there is often substantial uncertainty involved, and this decision makers less confident to lean onto models alone when making decisions. The aim of this paper is to conceptualize […]

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Simulation-driven design for assessing strategic decisions in the conceptual design of circular PSS business models

ABSTRACT Due to ever increasing challenges faced by our global society, circular design and the idea of product-service systems (PSS) is gaining traction within businesses. However, ‘predicting’ the value of a future PSS solution in the early design phases is difficult, since it requires the ability to balance long term potential with short term decisions. […]

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BTH PDRL at the 9th CIRP IPSS Conference

In their editorial, Tim McAloone, Daniela Pigosso, Niels Henrik Mortensen and Yoshiki Shimomura remind us that the philosophy behind in Industrial Product Service Systems is to create customer-oriented solutions that function for longer and thus increase resource productivity, minimise resource consumption and enhance the ultimate value-add to the end user. In this spirit, the 9th […]

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Value-driven product service systems development: Methods and industrial applications

ABSTRACT In recent times a service-dominant logic is permeating the design of complex systems. However, in spite of their appeal, initiatives such as Product Service Systems (PSS) have not become mainstream, and methods are lacking to support this transition. This paper argues that methodological guidance, as well as tools for decision support, may be found […]

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