A feature-based design system for concurrent engineering

This paper presents the development of a feature-based design framework that facilitates communication between the different functions in the manufacturing cycle. Particular emphasis is placed on the integration of sales and marketing considerations in the design process through the extension of feature-based design principles upstream from design into the sales and marketing functions. The framework is based on Viewpoint Relationship Diagrams that formalise the specific information requirements of the various functions involved in the product design and manufacturing cycle and encourage a greater understanding of other functions involved in the design process.