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Original Date: 04/20/1998
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Information : Robust System Design Process
Previously, ITT Aerospace/Communications Division’s (A/CD’s) design process was a nine-step method which relied on concurrent engineering and Integrated Product Development (IPD)97. As designs grew in complexity along with the need to define specific critical tolerances, this process became too costly, continuously exceeded projected cycle times, and lacked strong communication tools. To resolve this situation, ITT A/CD developed a Robust System Design process which lowered design costs and reduced IPD cycle times. Robust refers to designs that perform in the customers’ environments according to their expectations.
The Robust System Design process is a total life cycle approach that uses a series of methods and techniques which complement the design process. These methods and techniques are well established reliability design tools used throughout industry quality function deployment; structured analysis; fault analysis; parameter design; modeling and simulation; technical performance measurements; risk; requirements management; and design reviews. These tools help design engineers identify needs and address critical factors (e.g., complexity, cost restraints, reliability risks, tolerances) during the design stages of the product. ITT A/CD provides training in all these tools so design engineers can develop their skills and establish a reliable design base. Inexperienced engineers receive additional help from mentors who help them identify the tools of choice for their individual projects.
The tools used in the Robust System Design process enable design engineers to collect detailed information early in the concept phase. This data is documented for individual parts and project requests. In addition, the Robust System Design process supports commercial part usage, and its process philosophy is applicable to various projects. Since implementing this process, ITT A/CD reduced its production costs by one-third.
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