In this paper, we present the development and application of a
technical feasibility model used in preliminary design to determine
whether a set of desired product specifications obtained from marketing is
feasible in the engineering domain. This model is developed by integrating
the capabilities of a multiobjective design problem, a multicriteria
design optimization tool, a Pareto frontier gap analyzer, metamodeling
methods, and use of the Pareto frontier as a constraint for feasibility
assessment. Although the tools are independent of the domain, their
application is illustrated using two examples: a simple three-objective
mathematical problem and a five-objective passenger vehicle design
problem. The feasibility of the desired product specifications is
determined with respect to the problem's Pareto frontier, which is
considered to be the necessary constraint to satisfy.