A discipline-spanning development process for self-adaptive mechatronic systems

Technical systems contain mechanical, electrical, and software parts. Consequently, they are developed by engineers of the respective disciplines. However, current industrial practice as well as existing development processes do not account for the required tight integration between the engineers of the different disciplines. Processes become even more complex, when self-adaptive systems are built. In this paper, we present a development process for selfadaptive mechatronic systems which particularly addresses the integration between the disciplines concerned with the development of software, namely control and software engineering. We illustrate the process by presenting examples from the development of autonomous railway vehicles which build convoys to improve energy efficiency

Internal conflict in ship repair works: introducing PFD as intervention

Incidences of intergroup conflicts have turned out to be a common problem that occurs in shipyards of the ship repair works industry. This study aimed at examining the possible causes that contribute toward these conflicts occurring and practical solutions to manage the conflicts. Therefore, in order to resolve these conflicts well, what is required is the development of a relevant work process/system that can be implemented within the organisation. This research also identified the causes of conflicts and recommended appropriate solutions. A qualitative research methodology was used to identify practical solutions to address these conflicts. Data were gathered from document reviews, observations, and also interviews. The analysis was done by using Nvivo11. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, which involved staff from the Engineering Department and Production Department. The findings indicated that conflicts are the result of several factors, including age and educational level, which leads to poor communication and poor cooperation among the staff. Meanwhile, poor time management causes poor performance among the staff. The relationship between the Engineering Department and Production Department has been improved by introducing the Production-Friendly Drawing (PFD). The Production Department needs to utilise the PFD in order to ensure that ship repair works are performed in accordance with the “best engineering practice”, while the designers in the Engineering Department must ensure that the end-product production drawing is user-friendly and accurate. When PFD is introduced for ship repair works, it is capable to reduce the age and education level gaps between the Engineering Department and Production Department. Further studies may look int the improvements and challenges of PFD in creating sustainable development at the shipyard