Rogier Wolfert | Searcharxiv

arXiv2023

Socio-technical systems integration and design: a multi-objective optimisation method based on integrative preference maximisation

Current systems design optimisation methodologies are one-sided, as these ignore the socio-technical integration between stakeholder preferences ('what a human wants') and the capability of technical assets ('what a system can deliver'). Moreover, classical multi-objective optimisation methods contain fundamental mathematical flaws. Also, the often-used classical Pareto front does not provide a single best-fit design configuration, but rather a set of design alternatives. This leaves designers without a unique solution to their problems. Finally, current multi-objective optimisation processes are not well aligned with design practices, because they do not sufficiently involve decision makers and do not translate their interests into a single common preference domain to find an overall group optimum. This paper introduces a new Open Design Systems (Odesys) methodology and a new Integrative Maximisation of Aggregated Preferences (IMAP) method, implemented in the Preferendus tool. Its added value and use are exemplified in two infrastructure design applications, which show how to achieve the pure best-fit for common-purpose design results.

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arXiv2022

Multi-system intervention optimization for interdependent infrastructure

The wellbeing of modern societies is dependent upon the functioning of their infrastructure networks. This paper introduces the 3C concept, an integrative multi-system and multi-stakeholder optimization approach for managing infrastructure interventions (e.g., maintenance, renovation, etc.). The proposed approach takes advantage of the benefits achieved by grouping (i.e., optimizing) intervention activities. Intervention optimization leads to substantial savings on both direct intervention costs (operator) and indirect unavailability costs (society) by reducing the number of system interruptions. The proposed optimization approach is formalized into a structured mathematical model that can account for the interactions between multiple infrastructure networks and the impact on multiple stakeholders (e.g., society and infrastructure operators), and it can accommodate different types of intervention, such as maintenance, removal, and upgrading. The different types of interdependencies, within and across infrastructures, are modeled using a proposed interaction matrix (IM). The IM allows integrating the interventions of different infrastructure networks whose interventions are normally planned independently. Moreover, the introduced 3C concept accounts for central interventions, which are those that must occur at a pre-established time moment, where neither delay nor advance is permitted. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed approach, an illustrative example of a multi-system and multi-actor intervention planning is introduced. Results show a substantial reduction in the operator and societal costs. In addition, the optimal intervention program obtained in the analysis shows no predictable patterns, which indicates it is a useful managerial decision support tool.

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