This area looks at theories, methods and tools for generating, modelling, optimising, simulating and reasoning about complex engineered systems.
Engineering Design encompasses theories, methods and tools for generating, modelling, optimising, simulating and reasoning about complex engineered systems. This includes products, processes, systems and product-service systems.
Core to our strategy in this area is a continued support for fundamental, multidisciplinary research and encouragement of a research model where innovation is driven by discoveries. We will build on current investments.
We aim to encourage a strategic focus towards engineering design research that underpins the creation and translation of emerging manufacturing technologies. For example, digital manufacturing will require a more integrated, seamless approach to engineering design research across the entire supply chain.
An established community in this research area with the skills necessary to adapt to the changing UK landscape is another goal. This includes either a champion or a group or both, able to raise awareness of the underpinning nature of engineering design. Another aim is to embed engineering design across sectors and encourage research into fundamental tools and methodologies that will aid industrial adoption and address challenges related to the circular economy, sustainability and resource efficiency.
We also wish to promote opportunities for research across interfaces and via international collaboration. The crosscutting nature of engineering design is reflected in our portfolio in this area. A significant proportion of research is relevant to one or more sectors and across research councils, especially the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).