On Modeling Multiple Objectives and Multi-Level Decisions in Concurrent Design

Modeling of multiple objectives in a decision and multilevel decisions are important in decision-based concurrent design. In this paper we address these twin issues in the context of a rotating disk. The initial mathematical description, referred to as the baseline model, of the rotating disk is independent of the strategies of modeling and solution, applied to it. Once the baseline model is established, it is modeled using two design strategies with different philosophical underpinnings, namely, one based on the notion of a unique optimum and the other on the notion of satisficing solutions. Our desire in writing this paper is to foster discussion rather than offering a prescription for solution.