Multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) takes into consideration all relevant disciplines simultaneously to find a global optimum, which is superior to a solution from a sequence of local optimizations in individual disciplines. MDO is a rigorous way to solving complex design problems. MDO has been successfully applied in designing many complex products and systems such as aircrafts, automobiles, shipbuilding, computers, and civic infrastructures. However, designs for modern products and production systems become more and more complicated due to the coupled nature of multiple disciplines, ever-increasing numbers of system components, uncertainties, and the needs of multiple design criteria. A simultaneous consideration of multiple disciplines increases the complexity of design problems. Continuing research and development efforts are in demand to advance the theories and methodologies of MDO.

This special issue will be dedicated to the recent progresses on theories, methodologies, and applications of MDO. It will provide an international forum for researchers to summarize recent developments and concepts in the field. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Comprehensive literature review on MDO
• Formulation of complex optimal problems
• Mathematic modeling for MDO applications
• Analytical and heuristic algorithms
• Collaborative design optimization
• Computer programs and tools for multivariable, multiconstraint, and multiobjective design problems
• Finite element multidisciplinary analysis
• Multiphysics and multiscale engineering simulation
• MDO in operational research
• Optimization of systems of systems
• Design of mechatronic products and systems
• Optimizations for planning, scheduling, and control
• Studies of MDO in mechatronic products such as robotics, automotives, aircrafts, and medical devices

Before submission authors should carefully read over the journal's Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/mpe/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/submit/journals/mpe/mdoe/ according to the following timetable: