Design of process parameters using robust design techniques and multiple criteria optimization

This paper presents a methodology for the design of products/processes that makes use of the concepts of robust design and the techniques of multiple criteria optimization for simultaneously optimizing many quality characteristics. First, a systematic approach to the selection of an efficient matrix experiment for a design problem is presented. Appropriate performance measures are obtained so that their joint optimization results in the minimum variation of product characteristics. The use of transformations is highlighted as a useful technique to statistically validate the design process. A discrete multiple criteria optimization algorithm that incorporates the methods of dominated approximations and reference points is developed to obtain nondominated solutions for the design problem. The methodology is illustrated using a case study gleaned from the literature