Overview of the Design Embodiment Process
The first step is to define the system level constraints and requirements, such as the functionality, performance, reliability, safety, cost, and environmental impact of the product. These constraints and requirements guide the selection of the best design alternatives and evaluation criteria. The system level constraints and requirements also help to identify the main subsystems and interfaces that make up the product.
The second step is to determine the configuration or architecture of the system, which is the arrangement and integration of the subsystems and interfaces. The configuration or architecture of the system should satisfy the system level constraints and requirements, as well as optimize the trade-offs between competing objectives, such as weight, size, complexity, and manufacturability. The configuration or architecture of the system can be represented by various tools, such as block diagrams, functional flow diagrams, or morphological charts.
The third step is to define the interfaces and connections between components and sub systems. This specifically helps determine the ideal operating window for a component performance and ensures that physical and functional limits are not exceeded.
The fourth step is to specify the components or subsystems that constitute the system, which are the individual parts or assemblies that perform specific functions within the product. The components should meet the specifications and requirements derived from the system level and the configuration or architecture of the system. The components or subsystems should also be compatible with each other and with the interfaces and connections that link them together.
Finally, designers need to iterate through the decisions made based on constraints, architecture, interfaces, and components to solve conflicts and optimize a design with respect to cost, performance, and quality. This may involve revisiting the initial requirements, specifications, and assumptions, as well as testing and evaluating the design against the desired criteria.
