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The Principles of Design (Oxford Series on Advanced Manufacturing)

by Nam P. Suh

ISBN-10: 9780195043457
ISBN-10: 0-19-504345-6
ISBN-13: 9780195043457
ISBN-13: 978-0-19-504345-7
Hardcover
1990-02-01
Oxford University Press, USA


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Editorials


Product Description
Here is a basic introduction to the principles of industrial design and their application in all phases of planning and production. It is intended to offer experienced instruction, based on scientific knowledge, in place of the intuitive approach to the field often encountered in engineering practice and education. The book presents basic principles and constitutes an exposition of these fundamental axioms and their application. The emphasis is on identifying problems in a clear, scientific manner, so that the correct solution may be arrived at regardless of the mathematical treatment involved. In particular, the importance of conceptualizing design approaches--a uniquely human, intellectual skill--is highlighted, since too often educators and engineers try to limit this process to computer techniques. Case studies are extensively presented to illustrate the significance as well as the use of the axioms in solving real problems. The work is based on extensive experience at M.I.T's Laboratory for Manufacturing and Productivity, where axiomatics is a major program. The goal of the program is to bring a scientific approach to the decision-making process related to manufacturing--an approach that facilitates rational design of processes and products, as well as the optimization of manufacturing systems.

Reviews


Very useful development
I had purchased this book with hesitation. The "Axioms? Nah" review seemed negative. I discovered that this book describes a practical method for converting design requirements into solutions.

After reflection, I realized that this 'synthesis' phase of design is really ad-hoc in my company and this is the first process I've ever seen that deals with organizing and literally capturing the synthesis process.

PROs
1) Offers a solution to improving the design process at the point when many design mistakes are introduced into products.
2) Applies to any design problem, including services.
3) Will change your view if you thought design skill was an 'Art' developed by experience.

CONs
1) Too much math really not needed to describe the process.
2) Very wordy at times and potential confusing as to the practical significance of the conclusions.
3) The examples are somewhat technical which may cause some light readers to miss the significance of the points made.

This is the book for anyone who wants to call themselves a designer. With just a bit of analysis and comprehension of the axiomatic framework, it is fascinating at how many current 'Good' designs, such as the side-open fridge, are really only compromises with fundamental flaws that add cost and reduce robustness.

Axioms? Nah!
The author tries to make his design methodology a science. However, the two axioms in his theory were drawn from past "good" design examples by his own judgement, rather than common sense that everyone perceives. You can easily find many design examples that "violate" his design axioms, but remain well-accepted and good designs nowaday, such as integrated design modules, side-open fridge, etc. Over all, this book provides an alternative design philosophy. Design axioms? Maybe too ambitious....

New Approach
This book presents a very new approach to design. The theory is well constructed and easy to read. The manufacturing and design process is seen more as a science than as an art


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