Generating Engineering Concepts

A conceptual design shows the technology that could be employed to deliver the desired benefits to a potential customer. In the design process, many conceptual designs are generated in search of the design that best meets the customer’s needs. Conceptual designs are generated by breaking down the function of the envisioned product into smaller and simpler subfunctions.  The subfunctions are documented in a function structure diagram. Then ideation methods are used to come up with solutions for each subfunction. Finally, subfunctions selected to fulfill all of the functions of the product are grouped together and further refined into a conceptual design.

Function Structure Diagram

Matrix Methods

Individual ideation

Group ideation

Communicating concepts

Feasibility Analysis-estimating

Engineering Concept Gate