Toward Value-Driven Design of a small, low-cost UAV

This paper describes the preliminary results arising from the design of a small, lowcost UAV for maritime search and rescue missions using a value-driven approach. It is a case study of the DECODE (Decision Environment for COmplex DEsigns) project of the University of Southampton. DECODE aims to provide a multidisciplinary environment to support and improve design decisions in order to maximize long term product value. This approach involves the analysis of the overall aircraft life-cycle, from conceptual design to the end of its service life.