Proactive Support for Conceptual Design Synthesis of Sheet Metal Components

Abstract

This paper describes an approach of generating feasible design solutions in terms of form features according to functional requirements of sheet metal component design. The objective of this research is to develop a methodology of generating a solution space at the conceptual design stage and subsequently selecting an optimal solution for sheet metal component design. A decision made at the conceptual design stage causes consequences for all subsequent phases of the product life cycle. Normally a concept or a principle solution is selected on the basis of desired functional requirements, neglecting the consequence of selection on the performance of other life cycle phases like manufacturing and assembly etc. This approach causes problems at later product realization stages in terms of cost & time incurred due to redesign of product. This paper presents a novel approach of how consequences caused by design decisions on later life cycle phases specially manufacturing can be brought to the attention of designers at the conceptual design stage of sheet metal components