Ship systems synthesis and analysis using holistic design approach: The QFD-AD method

Abstract

Design complexity is generally experienced in the design development and production of large and complex systems. It is viewed as the key element that would determine the design development cycle and quality. In this context, a study was conducted to demonstrate the ROPAX ship design and development processes applying the QFD-AD method. It is proposed to synthesise and analyse the ship systems design and configurations at the early design phase. This study explored the method applicability to facilitate concurrent design and decision-making, alternative to the conventional ship design spiral model. Moreover, it presented the potential method to support holistic design approach in exploring ship design as large and complex systems.