Brainstorming the cryoplane layout by using the iterative AHP-QFD-AHP approach

Abstract

Most of commercial civil aircraft are derivatives of each other. They start with an aero-structural design based on the mission profile, and what remains is the integration of existing subsystems. This only leaves room for incremental innovation. When a totally new concept has to be worked out, an innovative brainstorming procedure has to be facilitated, leading to a new product definition. This collaborative creative thinking is not an easy task, and analytical design management tools are required. Therefore, an iterative AHP-QFD-AHP approach for brainstorming is implemented into a concurrent engineering environment in the early phases of layout conception. In the case study, the proposed model delivered the product definition of the cryoplane concept successfully, which promises clean operation.

Keyword : AHP, QFD, concurrent engineering, concept development, new product development (NPD)