Trends in concurrent, multi-criteria and optimal design of mechatronic systems: A review

Due to the inherent complexity and the dynamic coupling between subsystems of mechatronic systems, a systematic and multicriteria design thinking methodology is crucial to replace the traditionally used sequential design approach. In this paper we discuss the various aspects of current approaches within mechatronic system design to point out the most important challenges. Accordingly, a review on the most recent work on design and optimization methods and tools is presented and briefly discussed. A framework for concurrent and integrated design of mechatronic system based on separation of realtime and non-realtime system behaviours is also introduced and developed methods based on this model are presented.