Systematic and Iterative Process of Embodiment Design
Learning Objectives
In this chapter we will look at the detailed design from a high-level and focus on different aspect of detailed design in later chapters. By the end of this chapter students will be able to:
- Describe and apply a systematic process to move from constraints to architecture to connection between assemblies and finally to component specification.
- Describe and utilize an iterative approach for concept refinement.
The detailed design stage, also known as the embodiment stage, is where a concept is refined through engineering analysis. This stage involves transforming the abstract idea into a concrete specification that can be implemented and tested. The detailed design stage can include activities such as selecting materials, defining dimensions, performing simulations, verifying functionality, and optimizing performance. The detailed design stage is crucial for ensuring the feasibility, reliability, and quality of the final product.
In this stage, product designers have to make many decisions that involve trade-offs between different aspects of the product, such as performance, sustainability, cost of manufacturing and assembly, aesthetics, ergonomics, usability, and so on.
For example, a product designer may have to choose between different materials for a product component, such as plastic, metal, wood, or composite. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of strength, durability, weight, environmental impact, recyclability, availability, and cost. The product designer has to evaluate these factors and select the most suitable material for the product’s function, target market, and design specifications.
Another example of a trade-off decision in the embodiment stage is the level of complexity and integration of the product components. A product designer may have to decide whether to use more or fewer parts, whether to combine or separate functions, whether to use standard or custom parts, and so on. These decisions affect the performance, reliability, maintainability, modularity, adaptability, and assembly of the product. The product designer has to balance these aspects and optimize the product’s structure and configuration.
The embodiment stage of product design is a complex and iterative process that requires creativity, analysis, evaluation, and communication skills from the product designer. The product designer has to consider many factors and constraints and make trade-off decisions that satisfy the customer’s needs and expectations, as well as the technical and economic feasibility of the product.
