Engineering design principles as patterns of relationships in frame creation

Abstract

Frame creation (framing) faces the challenge of envisioning novel viewpoints that point to value. This paper examines framing and uses Dorst’s definition of frame from the perspective of engineering design theories and methods to highlight three of their key characteristics: (P1) problem-domain independence, (P2) generativity, and (P3) formal definition of a valuable design outcome or process in terms of principles. These properties support two statements. Statement 1: an engineering design theory or method satisfying (P1), (P2) and (P3) holds Dorst’s definition of frame. The design principles on which the engineering design theory or method is based on are the pattern of relationships that characterizes valuable outcomes and processes in that frame. Statement 2: when a designer uses an engineering design theory or method satisfying (P3), the interaction between the design problem frame (A) and the engineering design theory or method frame (B), uncovers a new frame (C) with a definition of value. Illustrative examples based on axiomatic design and C-K theory demonstrate the practical application of these statements.