Application of Decision Theory and Information Processing in the Selection of Engineering Entities

Abstract

The selection of engineering entities often occurs in engineering design processes. Examples of such occurrences are the selection of antifriction bearings, belt drive components, chain drive components and wire rope, to name but a few. This paper reviews the essentials of decision theory and information processing and then goes on to demonstrate their application in developing a quantitative method for wire rope selection. The use of the method is demonstrated in selecting a suitable type and size of wire rope for the hoisting/hauling mechanism of a manual winch. The method should be applicable in other situations in which the need for the selection of wire rope may arise.