A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Conceptual Design of Innovative Infrastructure Systems

A conceptual design approach is presented that was applied in a multi-disciplinary project to develop innovative solutions for the US Army's Future Combat System to negotiate 4-meter gaps on the battlefield. The design approach focused on seven steps that were founded on three specific techniques. The techniques included a dual approach to developing project objectives, a two-dimensional model based on risk and return to evaluate conceptual concepts, and a controlled convergence with iterative concept generation and selection. It is proposed that this conceptual design approach may be beneficial to other projects because of the commonality with the objectives associated with conceptual design, innovative solutions, and infrastructure systems. The development of unique design methods is necessary to meet a challenging design environment that seek innovative solutions for infrastructure systems. The conceptual design approach presented and illustrated in this paper addresses this challenge.