Parameter design considering the impact of design changes on downstream processes based upon the Taguchi method

ISSN： 1466-1837

Source： Journal of Engineering Design, Vol.19, Iss.4, 2008-08, pp. : 299-319

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Abstract

This research introduces a new systematic approach for parameter design considering the impact of design changes on downstream processes. In this approach, design parameters with potential changes are modelled as noise parameters, while design parameters without potential changes are described as controllable parameters. The Taguchi method is employed to identify the robust design whose downstream process is the least sensitive to design parameter value changes. Since design parameter changes are usually associated with probabilities, the Taguchi method is modified in this research considering the probabilities of noise parameters. Estimation of potential process change cost due to potential design parameter value changes is also studied. A case study in pipeline engineering design and construction has been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of this new parameter design approach.