Amorphous Systems dfM

Traditional dfM applications have proven effective in addressing hardware products. However, many products and services today require combinations of hardware and software as well as external infrastructure. Typical examples include mobile phones that utilize the internet. Application of dfM to such products must address not only the phone handset but also the complex software that controls the device as well as the communication infrastructure. The key to effective dfM for amorphous products is defining and describing the system. Unlike hardware, system products have amorphous (shapeless) elements. In many cases, one must define the structure of the system, i.e., apply concept development techniques, before applying techniques such as FMEA. In short, representation of the system holds the key to establishing a solid theory for amorphous systems dfM.

Recent Publications:

• Beiter, K., Yang, T., and Ishii, K. (2006), "Preliminary Design of Amorphous Products," Proceedings DVD of the ASME Design Engineering Technical Conference (Paper #99680), September 2006, Philadelphia, PA. [pdf]