Concept Glossary

Labour intensity of the Designer/Engineer
The labour intensity of individual disciplines varies greatly in every project. In the planning an individual is determined for each project, depending on which discipline is best suited to carry out the product’s development. The communication skills between the disciplines is especially important for teamwork. The following diagram represents the labour intensity of both disciplines during the 5 phases of the project process.

 

 

 

Brainstorming
Brainstorming is a method which is comprised of a group of 5-15 individuals , where new and unique ideas can be established.

Briefing
The brief specifies the task for a project. It contains information about objectives, target groups, competing products, competitive advantage and evolutions (see specification).

CAD Model
A virtual model of the product is generated using 3D CAD software (also known as Computer Aided Design) which enables a solid model to be visible. This model can be used for movement visualisations, model making or mould construction.

There will essentially be differences between the surfaces and solid models. The quality of the data is important for further developments as this enables it to be constructed through the use of various software solutions.

“Designfreeze“
The finished product design will be frozen. This therefore means that all the design components can no longer be changed after this stage. Colour, surfaces and form are permanent. If for example, necessary adjustments are still required by constructive modifications, these should be well documented and all development participants should be notified of any changes. (also known as “change request”).

Design Model (Model)
This model represents the external product form, as it will be at the concluding production model. The surfaces, labelling, colours and if applicable moving parts will be accurately reproduced. The design model is suited for brochure photos or for presentation purposes at exhibitions.

Ergonomics
(From Greek „ergon“ =Work and „nomos“ = Rule).

Is the science of legality of human activity. The purpose of ergonomics is to establish the optimum working conditions of humans (workspace, improvement of human-machine interface). (See also; Ergonomic Study)

Ergonomic Model (Model)
This model should be the interface between human and product and if necessary demonstrate the relevant courses of movement of the product. The developer begins to get a feel for the final product in the early development state or can carry out a study, with the aid of this model and individuals, on ergonomic tests. Depending on the objective, usage and cost considerations the model material of the production process and the level of detail will be determined.

Ergonomic Study
This study examines the working conditions and human machine interface of several individuals. Depending on the theme, a minimum of 25-30 individuals are essential for a significant and accurate study. Questionnaires, ergonomic models and the subjects are very carefully and precisely selected with special focus on the aim of studies objective. A product with improved ergonomics leads to product advantages and/or a unique selling point. (see also: Ergonomics)

Colour Definition
Every part will be defined with an exact colour. Here a suitable colour system is selected. This must be one that matches the manufacturing method, manufacturing country and material.

Manufacturing Documentation
These documents contain drawings, part lists, work plans, time plans, testing schedules and service instructions. That means all necessary information concerning the manufacturing of the product is documented.

Manufacturing Drawing (Diagrams), see; Technical Drawings

FMEA Analysis (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
This form of analysis searches for product entrapments and assesses these after its risk contents. Through this analysis, defects are identified earlier and can be avoided.

Functional Model (model)
This model presents some or all technical functions of the product. No considerations for the external form are taken into account. This is however, admittedly essential for the functional testing. (e.g. Aerodynamics, air ventilation). The relevant mould parts can then also be constructed.

Main Series (Model), see: Production Sample

Manufacturing Cost Assessment
Comprises of the material costs, tooling costs, production time and production equipment costs.

Industrial Design, see: Product Design

Models, see: Scale Model, Ergonomic model, Design Model, Function model, Prototype, Pilot run, CAD model

Sample (model)
These are parts or units from the production run. The sample can be derived from the pilot production, initial production or main production run. The production status will be observed through the corresponding production description, to enable it to be documented and later allocated.

Pre-Production Run
(also known as pilot model or pilot run) Is a product sample which is produced before the final production run commences, to carry out last checks on the functions and production process.

Surface Definition
The visible surfaces of the product are defined by the use of a common system. This way for example, the toolmaker gains details of the texture definition or the metal finisher obtains information about surface quality.

Specifications
Is the binding and detailed description of project performances and project requirements, In every specification product application, product overview, functions, benefits, quality, user interface and requirements should be defined according to satisfactory engineer standards. (see also; Briefing)

Stage Report
The stage report draws together the results of the completed stage. This allows development work to be documented and decisions to be finalised. Choices can later be reconstructed and explained.

Pilot Production( model), see; Initial Production

Product Definition, see : Colour and Surface Definition

Produkt Design
Product Design or industrial design is concerned with the creation of consumer goods, (household appliances, toys, furniture, etc) and capital goods (machinery and automobiles for industrial applications, medical technology). The aim is to later move the product design into an industrial production process.

Project Planning
Project planning is concerned with the time management and capacity planning, project definition, cost estimations and complexity assessment and risk management. The project planner must respond to rescheduling and redesigning with plan variations.

Scale Model (Model)
This model will be constructed from a material, with which the external form and proportions can be well presented. The amendment of the colours, material visuals, scale etc are dependent on the requirements and targets that have been applied to this model.

Prototype (Model)
This model will be constructed from CAD data or production drawings and equal the future production model in material and weight. If due to costing, or reasons due to time, parts will be simplified or neglected (e.g. draft angle). This model is known as a semi prototype.

Quality Control/ Quality Assurance
The quality of a design can be checked in every stage. This work is particularly important in the last stage, in order to bring a high quality product onto the market. This is how, for instance the initial sample is tested and controlled after the specifications of form, colour and surfaces are defined.

Research
This research can be gained through a variety of sources from the Internet, by measurements, from libraries or can take place in the form of surveys. The aim could be for instance, to gain an overview of the competitors, or gain a better understanding of a different culture.

Rendering
A realistic illustration of the final product is produced, with the aid of marker pens, to capturing the textures, reflections, shadows, material, size, shape etc. From the 80´s, computer software was developed and used to construct renderings from CAD models.

Risk Assessment
Risk and hazard analysis attempts to identify the risks of a product, their probability of loss occurring as well as amount of damages. A possibility offers the FMEA analysis.

Foam Model (model), see: Scale Model

Semiprototype (Model)
This model will be constructed and matched from CAD data or production drawings, only as part of the latter production sample in material and masses. Components of this model will be simplified or neglected (e.g. draft angle) due to cost or time shortages.

Production/Series Sample (Model), see: Sample

Technical Drawings (Diagrams)
Is a graphical document that contains all information and demonstrates the assembly of construction parts and units. Construction parts and units therefore describe the future product. All relevant elements can be defined through sectional drawings, exploded diagrams and detailed views via a technical diagram.

Time Scheduling, see Project Scheduling

Method- Technology Assessment
This type of assessment is comprised of function, assembly and quality assurance.

Pilot Model, pre-production model (model), see: Pilot Run

Workshop
Workshop is an activity, which involves groups of individuals from intensive and diverse approaches disputing over a theme. This can take place in the form of a discussion or practical exercises. Interaction between the participants enables individuals to learn from each other and develop themes together. (see also: Brainstorming)

Designs drawings see: Technical design drawings, Scale design diagrams, Engineering drawing and Manufacturing drawing.

Time Management, see; Time Schedule

Approvals
Obtaining the necessary approval through the appropriate authorities.