Using Search Optimization in Modular System Upgrades: A Parametric Analysis and Case Study

This article discusses the application of search optimization techniques to modular systems. A formulation is derived where a critical module performance characteristic mc is used as a benchmark to determine if a system upgrade should be pursued. A parametric analysis showing the sensitivity of mc to the time factor D and the default module performance md is presented. It was observed that as the current default performance holds its value well in the future, the performance standards for an upgrade should be more stringent. It was also seen that having better performance as a default makes upgrading less appealing. Finally, an analysis in a case study showed a 44% increase in profit when the search optimization technique is applied when compared to a 'never upgrade' strategy.