Advanced phase powertrain design attribute and technology value mapping

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to focus on how the concept design stage of a powertrain system can be improved by using a purely objective driven approach in selecting a final concept design to progress further. This research investigation will examine the development of a novel test-bed to assist in the selection of powertrain technologies during the concept design phase at Ford Motor Company Ltd, serving as the main contribution to knowledge. Design/methodology/approach – The objectives of this research were achieved by carrying out a literature review of external published work related to concept design evaluation methods within product development and value engineering techniques. Empirical studies were conducted with a supporting case study used to test the application of a new test-bed to improve the concept design decision process. Findings – A quantitative new tool “Product Optimisation Value Engineering” (PROVEN) is presented to critically assess new and evolving powertrain technologies at the concept design phase. Research limitations/implications – This research improves the concept design selection process, hence increasing the product value to the customer. Practical implications – The new test-bed “PROVEN” incorporates a data-driven objective approach to assist in assessing concept design alternatives in providing the net value in terms of function and cost as perceived by the customer. Originality/value – A mathematical new test-bed that incorporates a highly adaptable, data-driven and multi-attribute value approach to product specification and conceptual design is developed, novel to the automotive concept design process. This will create a substantially optimised product offering to the market, reducing overall development costs while achieving customer satisfaction. The new tool has the ability to define a technology value map to assess multiple technical options as a function of its attributes, whose precise values can be determined at a given cost.