Innovation Process in Complex Product Systems in Iran's Aviation Industry: The Interaction of Reverse Engineering and Forward Engineering

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD Candidate in Technology Management, Department of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Faculty Member, Department of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran

3 Faculty Member, University Complex of Management and Soft Technology, Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Due to the different pattern of evolution of complex product systems in comparison with conventional innovation models, this paper examines the evolution of innovation in complex product systems in Iran's aviation industry using the concept of life cycle model in systems engineering. In this paper, a model for identifying and analyzing innovation stages in CoPS is developed with a focus on revealing the interaction of reverse and forward engineering. For this purpose, first, by reviewing the literature and life cycle models in CoPS, a conceptual framework was developed. Then, by chronological multiple case study of three CoPS in the aviation industry, a life cycle-based innovation process model in CoPS was developed. This model includes following stages: reverse engineering and design recovery (including data evaluation and analysis, technical data package generation, design verification, technical data package completion and design implementation), concept, development, production, operation, support and retirement. Our findings show several salient features of innovation process in CoPS in Iran's aviation industry as follows. This model is a complex system of processes which are concurrent, iterative, recursive and interdependent. During the product innovation process, reverse and forward engineering interact with each other. Also, this model provides a systematic and pragmatic framework for better management of the innovation process in complex product systems that are designed and produced based on ideas and technical data obtained from reverse engineering in intraction with forward engineering (direct design).
 

Keywords

References

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