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A method to assess the effects of engineering change propagation

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Abstract

This paper presents a modelling method that seeks to support the prediction and management of undesired engineering change (EC) propagation during the design and development of complex products. The method builds on the house of quality and the change prediction method to model the effects of potential change propagation brought about by different change options. The objective is to better reflect how well each change option can address the product requirements. The method was applied to the design of a jet engine fan during a case study with an aerospace company. The findings suggest that this modelling approach is suitable for assessing the effects of potential EC propagation and can support companies in effective exploration of the design space.

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Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the industrial partners for their valuable support. The authors would also like to acknowledge Dr Tiziano Ghisu (University of Cambridge) for his precious advice in jet engine design, Dr Claudia Eckert (Open University) and Dr Rene Keller (BP) for their constructive feedback during the early stages of this work and the anonymous referees for their valuable comments and suggestions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Engineering, Engineering Design Centre, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, UK

    Edwin C. Y. Koh, Nicholas H. M. Caldwell & P. John Clarkson

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  1. Edwin C. Y. Koh
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  2. Nicholas H. M. Caldwell
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  3. P. John Clarkson
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Correspondence to Edwin C. Y. Koh.

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Koh, E.C.Y., Caldwell, N.H.M. & Clarkson, P.J. A method to assess the effects of engineering change propagation. Res Eng Design 23, 329–351 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-012-0131-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-012-0131-3

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