A science-based approach to product design theory - Part I: formulation and formalization of design process
This paper, first of the two parts series, addresses a science-based approach to the study of design processes. Design process is an evolving process that begins with design requirements and ends with product descriptions. A general design governing equation is proposed to characterize the design process. We also proposed a design process model that embodies synthesis and evaluation processes, design problem redefinition process, and design decomposition process. The basis of the design process model is primitive design which is formalized as a six-step process. Any design problem can be decomposed into primitive designs. Utilizing the design representation scheme we established using set theory, the design process is mathematically formulated and formalized. The detailed explanations are provided to illustrate the design governing equation, the design process model and the mathematical formulation. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
design process design governing equation set theory science-based design studies