Innovative Conceptual Design: Theory and Application of Parameter Analysis

Conceptual design, along with need identification and analysis, make up the initial stage of the design process. Need analysis transforms the often vague statement of a design task into a set of design requirements. Conceptual design encompasses the generation of concepts and integration into system-level solutions, leading to a relatively detailed design. This 2001 book is devoted to the crucial initial stage of engineering design. In particular, it focuses on parameter analysis, a methodology that leads the user through the design process, helping to identify critical issues (parameters) of the design and propose configuration-specific solutions. To illustrate the principles discussed, the authors present numerous examples and a variety of real-world case studies. The emphasis throughout is on innovation. This useful text will appeal to advanced undergraduate and graduate students, as well as practising engineers, architects, and product development managers.