Development of a methodology for using function analysis in flexible design strategies

Abstract

This paper shows the development of a function analysis methodology for use in flexible design. This is a strategy to identify common areas of existing designs and then form a new ‘core design’ on which the new designs can be based. A full review of current function analysis techniques is given, from which the new systematic methodology is based. The method has three stages: function identification, function description and function systematization. An industrial case study is given with the function analysis of a powered wheelchair.