Knowledge-intensive collaborative decision support for design processes: A hybrid decision support model and agent

In this chapter, we describe a hybrid decision model and a multi-agent framework for collaborative decision support in the design process. The proposed knowledge-based collaborative decision support model can quantitatively incorporate qualitative design knowledge and preferences for multiple, conflicting attributes stored in a knowledge repository so that a better understanding of the consequences of design decisions can be achieved from an overall perspective. The multi-agent framework provides an efficient decision support environment involving distributed resources to shorten the realization of products with optimal life-cycle performance and competitiveness. The developed model and framework are generic and flexible enough to be used in a variety of design decision problems. The framework is illustrated with an application in concept evaluation and selection in power supply product family design for mass customization.