Evaluative Criteria for Product Manufacturing and Optimization Fundamentals

Abstract

This chapter explains key optimization technologies and the criteria for judging the aptness and quality of the factors being considered. First, fundamental criteria and characteristics are explained with reference to particular product manufacturing paradigms and how these have changed over time. The use of satisfaction functions is explained in terms of subjective attributes that can be integrated with sophisticated evaluative techniques to enable product manufacturing improvements now and in the future. The relationships between criteria and optimization processes are then discussed. Special attention is given to clarifying the process of design optimization. Next, developmental improvements in optimization techniques applied to industrial activities are described. The problem of related criteria that often have complex conflicting interrelationships is explored and the use of multiobjective Pareto optimum solutions to handle the multitude of product optimization details is explained. Last, the use of Pareto optimum solution sets in system optimization methodologies to maximize improvements in product design and manufacturing is discussed.