A Mathematical Theory of Design: Foundations, Algorithms and Applications: 17 (Applied Optimization, 17) - Hardcover

Braha, D.; Maimon, O.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0792350790 ISBN 13: 9780792350798

Publisher: Kluwer Academic Publishers, 1998

Synopsis

Formal Design Theory (PDT) is a mathematical theory of design. The main goal of PDT is to develop a domain independent core model of the design process. The book focuses the reader's attention on the process by which ideas originate and are developed into workable products. In developing PDT, we have been striving toward what has been expressed by the distinguished scholar Simon (1969): that "the science of design is possible and some day we will be able to talk in terms of well-established theories and practices. " The book is divided into five interrelated parts. The conceptual approach is presented first (Part I); followed by the theoretical foundations of PDT (Part II), and from which the algorithmic and pragmatic implications are deduced (Part III). Finally, detailed case-studies illustrate the theory and the methods of the design process (Part IV), and additional practical considerations are evaluated (Part V). The generic nature of the concepts, theory and methods are validated by examples from a variety of disciplines. FDT explores issues such as: algebraic representation of design artifacts, idealized design process cycle, and computational analysis and measurement of design process complexity and quality. FDT's axioms convey the assumptions of the theory about the nature of artifacts, and potential modifications of the artifacts in achieving desired goals or functionality. By being able to state these axioms explicitly, it is possible to derive theorems and corollaries, as well as to develop specific analytical and constructive methodologies.

About this title

Synopsis

This book is extremely important to the field because it presents a unified framework for theory and practice, which is proven theoretically and by many cases from various engineering fields. Specifically, there are four major aspects that make the book unique: the book develops a formal systems approach to design (including theorems, analysis of principles of design and information theory); methods for efficient design are rigorously derived from the theory, based on AI and optimization; the scope of the book covers many engineering disciplines under a unified framework, including mechanical, electrical, civil, industrial, manufacturing systems, and apparel industry (Thus, it applies to readers from various disciplines, theoreticians and practitioners. DFM and DFA are also covered); and, the book provides the methodology for developing the next generation computer software for advanced intelligent CAD (Computer Aided Design).The book is especially appropriate for courses in engineering (mechanical, industrial, electrical, and civil).

It is also a useful reference for practicing engineers interested in design and optimization, and for applied mathematicians and computer software developers engaged in smart CAD applications.

Edition details

• Publisher: Kluwer Academic Publishers
• Publication date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0792350790
• ISBN 13: 9780792350798
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 704