City Research Online

Abstract

The development of a design method for systems which must attempt to satisfy a variety of possibly conflicting objectives relating to different aspects of performance at different stages in the life cycle is described. A review of the development of systems engineering (the basis of the design method), a statement of the systems engineering concept and definitions of the terminology are given as an introduction.

A specific problem is used in the development of the method, termed the design-control problem, in which the system must aim at objectives based on the construction cost, dynamic performance and static performance. A specific application is also used, the optimal design of a nuclear power station, this being of the size and complexity of problems encountered in practice.

The problem and design objectives are defined, mathematical models of the system which are used in the design optimisation and their means of solution are described. An outline of the techniques used in combining the various design objectives to form an overall design utility function, precedes the derivation of the utility function for the reactor problem. The utility function is related to the design parameters via the models, and the procedure used to maximise the expected utility by adjustment of parameters is described.

Finally, the results of the optimisation are presented and discussed, and in conclusion an analysis of the design method, its merits and shortcomings is made, with suggestions as to how improvements and additions could be effected.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering
Departments:	School of Science & Technology > School of Science & Technology Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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