Research on product development iterations based on feedback control theory in a dynamic environment

Abstract

The complicated interactions among tasks lead to iterations in product development and unexpected disturbances may destabilize the entire product development process. This paper makes an investigation on disposing product development iterations in a dynamic environment. Firstly, the uncertain factors, such as task durations, output branches of tasks, and resource allocations, existing in product development are discussed. Secondly, a satisfaction degree-based feedback control approach is put forward. Such an approach includes two scenarios: identifying a satisfaction degree and monitoring and controlling of iteration process. The former is used to represent the accepted iterative development process and the latter is realized by a resource regulating matrix based on feedback control theory. Finally, an example of a crane development project is provided to illustrate and verify the proposed approach. © 2011.