Lars Almefelt

CUSTOMIZING PRODUCT DATA MANAGEMENT FOR SYSTEMS ENGINEERING IN AN INFORMAL LEAN-INFLUENCED ORGANIZATION

The aim of this research work has been to investigate the need to formalize the systems engineering processes for embedded systems at a large automotive company. Further, formalization could be developed by using a commercial Product Data Management (PDM) system as a hub for systems engineering data is investigated. It was found that the case company employs an informal work process where responsibility is delegated to the individual design engineer. The enforcement of formal reports and deliverables is hence quite low. The company rather employs a series of meetings in order to balance the product properties and to follow up on work progress. The rigid test process employed is however more formalized which facilitates use of IT tools. The PDM system was customized to work for two demonstrator cases focusing on integration and workflow. An application solution was written using Visual C# to automate the design task in conjunction with the PDM system and simulation software. It is concluded that the case company has unique and specific needs that are not completely covered in todays PDM systems. This study further showed that PDM systems are flexible and can be customized to meet many of the needs. Nonetheless, it is questionable if the PDM solution fully supports the informal and lean influenced organization.

Computer Support for Systematic Design Applied in a Cross-functional Commercial Concept Development Project

In this paper, an empirical study aiming at exploring the practical applicability of a computer support for systematic design methodology is presented. During a six-month project, a cross-functional product development team in the automotive industry was studied using an action-based research approach. The team applied a systematic design methodology and used a computer tool that provides support for systematic design. In this paper we set out our conclusions on the effects of the methodology and tool with regard to creativity, quality, time consumption, and the work process of the team. In addition, suggestions for future development of systematic design tools are listed. Finally, recommendations for the application of systematic design in industry are given.

Requirements as a Means to Drive Innovation: A Reason-Based Perspective

Requirements and their management is a focused issue in industrial product development, as well as in systematic design methodology presented in literature. Reflecting current industrial practice ? typically involving a strong focus on efficiency issues such as the use of standard components, development lead-time, and productivity ? there is a risk that the consideration of innovation and product value is suppressed. This paper presents possible factors that facilitate the creation of innovative products. These factors, condensed, form a basis for a reason-based method that confronts requirements and solutions with innovation and value issues. A possible application of the proposed method is demonstrated using an industrial product development case.