A computerized design environment for functional modeling of mechanical products

This paper presents the strategies and the methods for the development of a computerized functional modeling design environment to support the conceptual phase of mechanical product design. A new design concept called behavioral scenario is introduced. The modeling process begins with an initial function decomposition and a conversion of the required function into immediate function. This information is then used to develop a causal behavioral process that consists of a network of sub-behaviors. Each sub-behavior is identified by matching its function (intended output action) and the required driving input (intended input action) with the behavioral scenario of a relevant physical phenomenon. The corresponding physical components for each sub-behavior can then be constructed, with respect to the derived behavioral process, to form a preliminary functional design model. Based on the above strategies, a functional modeling design environment has been developed. It consists of an initial function decomposition and conversion module, a causal behavioral process generation module, and a library of domainrelevant physical phenomena. The modules and associated functional modeling tools are described. A design case study is presented to illustrate the applicability of the modeling strategies and the usefulness of the design environment.