Concept creation in mechanical design : Part example

What is concept development in mechanical design process and what are the common steps for systematic development

Once the idea of a product/ system / part has been hatched the next step is to create concepts.

Concept development involves

  1. Concept creation
  2. Concept evaluation
  3. Concept selection

More than one concepts may be developed, along with listing their pros and cons.

The input for developing initial concepts are the product requirements and outcomes required. Along with design constraints, inputs and design space.

There may be multiple levels of concept development

Product - > System -> Sub system -> Component level .

Concept evaluation is done through analysis , judgement and experience.
One type of evaluation would be evaluating for strength and stability . Which would include hand calculations and possible concept analyses.

Proof of concept is a prototype which is generally prepared to prove out a concept which has been finalized for product development or part development depending on the level .

Creative process and less of a scientific process (analysis) . Requires deep understanding of the problem for effective outcomes.

Setting target specifications for a design are a key step to guide the process.

Example of a bracket concept:

Application: Mounting a rod (bronze ) onto the Purple plate

Input - Design space

Base design : Machined block

Alternative concept : Sheet metal bracket



Categories: : Design process