The Engineering Design Process
When it comes to the engineering and design of precision motion assemblies there are many variables that come into play. Having good engineering best practices and an iterative design process in place is key to any successful project whether it is a modification to a standard stage or a completely new design.
At Reliant Systems we have implemented a form to track the progress of new design projects, so we can easily stay on track throughout each phase of the engineering design process.
Four Key Phases Of The Engineering Design Process:
Phase 1: Inception
• review customer use cases to identify the specific need for the application
• review size and movement profile
• determine high level feasibility
• identify key areas of research
Once engineering determines the project concept is feasible, the project moves to phase 2.
Phase 2: Research
• identifying major components and quantities
• analyzing movement profile and determine drive options to meet specifications
• create a shell model for customer to ensure fitment into the application envelope
• identify long lead time components
• generate a quotable BOM with lead times
Once it is determined that the specs are achievable and a PO is received, the project moves to phase 3.
Phase 3: Development
• specify mounting and any anticipated fixtures
• finalize design inputs
• create a detailed model
• perform a design review
• generate engineering BOM
• create component and assembly drawings
• identify any packaging/shipping concerns
• confirm all design inputs have been addressed through design verification
• generate production BOM
• finalize ECO
Once it is determined the project is ready to be released to production, the project moves to phase 4.
Phase 4: Testing/Analysis
• perform first article inspection
• develop a build process
• perform a build review
• design validation
After testing/analysis verifies the project meets all specifications, it is ready for launch.
Throughout the entire engineering and design process we make sure an iterative dialogue exists between our engineering team and the customer to ensure that the project moves along smoothly and meets all specifications.