AdvancedTopic 95 of 106Engineering Mechanics
Machine design process
Define requirements, select concepts, analyse, iterate and validate against standards.
In depth
Define needs, specify requirements, generate concepts, select by decision matrix, analyse and size components, build prototypes, test, and iterate. Consider manufacturing, cost, safety, maintenance and standards from the start.
Key points
- Requirements first
- Failure modes considered early
- Document design decisions
ExampleDesigning a gearbox starts from power, speed ratio, life and cost targets.
What is Machine design process?
Define requirements, select concepts, analyse, iterate and validate against standards.
Why is it important to understand machine design process?
A structured design process prevents expensive errors, and each step checks the design against requirements and standards.
What are the usual steps in machine design?
Define requirements, generate concepts, select and detail a design, analyse loads and stresses, build a prototype and validate it against the requirements.
Why iterate rather than design once?
Analysis and testing reveal problems that were not obvious at first, so repeating the cycle improves the final design.
How is Machine design process used in practice?
Typical applications include developing a new hand tool from requirements through prototype testing, designing a lifting device that must meet a national standard and choosing between two concepts for a robotic gripper.
What should I learn before Machine design process?
Study "Flywheels" first (topic 94 of 106 in Engineering Mechanics). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Machine design process?
Requirements first. Failure modes considered early. Document design decisions.
Can you give an example of Machine design process?
Designing a gearbox starts from power, speed ratio, life and cost targets.
What comes after Machine design process?
The next topic is "Tolerances and fits", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Machine design process?
It is classed as Advanced in Engineering Mechanics (topic 95 of 106). It is an advanced topic. It assumes you are comfortable with the intermediate topics in Engineering Mechanics.