Title: Synthesis, analysis and simulation: a key enabler of concurrent product systems engineering

Authors: David C. Chang

Addresses: North American Operations Director, Vehicle Synthesis, Analysis and Simulation Process Center, General Motors Corporation, 30200 Mound Road, Warren, MI 48090-9010, USA

Abstract: A top-down systems engineering process is defined in this paper. This process is driven by customer requirements and results in vehicle products that meet those requirements. The role and benefits of computer-based methods, e.g. computer-aided engineering (CAE), in effectively implementing this process is delineated. An approach that integrates functional product requirements with physical realisation, i.e. math-based synthesis, is introduced. Synthesis and analysis are shown to be key to define, design, and validate vehicles, vehicle subsystems and components, and to meet physical and functional requirements simultaneously. This involves the utilisation of mathematical models at a variety of levels. Examples of using synthesis and analysis in vehicle development process are shown. The approach presented leads to shorter product development cycle at reduced cost, less prototype hardware builds, and superior quality for customers.

Keywords: computer-aided engineering; CAE; synthesis and analysis; systems engineering; vehicle development process; concurrent engineering; vehicle design; mathematical modeling; product development; product design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1999.005587

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1999 Vol.21 No.4/5, pp.315 - 324

Published online: 21 Oct 2004 *

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