Computational Rational Engineering and Development: Synergies and Opportunities

Abstract: Research and development in computer technology and computational methods have resulted in a wide variety of valuable tools for Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and Industrial Engineering. However, despite the exponential increase in computational capabilities and AI methods, many of the visionary perspectives on cybernetic automation of design, engineering, and development have not been successfully pursued or realized yet. While contemporary research trends and movements such as Industry 4.0 primarily target progress by connected automation in manufacturing and production, the objective of this paper is to survey progress and formulate perspectives targeted on the automation and autonomization of engineering development processes. Based on an interdisciplinary mini-review, this work identifies open challenges, synergies, and research opportunities towards the realization of resource-efficient cooperative engineering and development systems. In order to go beyond conventional human-centered, tool-based CAE approaches and realize Computational Intelligence Driven Development processes, it is suggested to extend the framework of Computational Rationality to challenges in design, engineering and development.