A design optimization strategy for creating devices that traverse the Pareto frontier over time

In some instances, the performance or function that is needed by a product naturally and predictably changes over time. Providing solutions that anticipate, account for, and allow for these changes is a significant challenge to manufacturers and design engineers. In this paper, a multiobjective optimization design method involving the strategic use of a series of optimization formulations is introduced to design products that adapt to changing needs by moving from one location on the Pareto frontier to another through the addition of a module. The design of a simple unmanned air vehicle is used to demonstrate implementation of the method, and results in the development of one aircraft platform and two module designs that adapt the aircraft to perform optimally for the particular mission at hand, thus optimally satisfying all three different mission profiles individually. The authors conclude that the developed method provides a new and general framework for selecting platform and module designs, and is capable of providing a set of designs based on predicted changes in needs.