A Fractal-Based Approach for Concurrent Engineering

The successful application of concurrent engineering in industry should be based on the effective organization of different activities, from design to marketing. However the dynamics of the environment has raised the following question: what model can be applied for concurrent engineering? This paper presents three models for concurrent engineering organizations. The models are based on the concept of autonomous design units, which are formed using the fractals characteristics: self-similarity, self-organization, and dynamic. These models allow one to reorganize the design process and to understand the dynamics of the concurrent engineering organization. The application taken from the French automotive industry shows the characteristics of these models.