The Systems Design Approach (better Late Than Not At All)

The Systems Design Approach, an emerging concept for the automotive industry, treats the total vehicle as one system vs. the vehicle as the result of a grouping of optimized components. It is a way of thinking that addresses very complex relationships and thus nurtures innovation. The systems process begins with a complete definition of the system requirements, is followed by the examination of technologies and generation of alternatives to satisfy those requirements, and concludes with the final development and proveout of the recommended alternative. The advantages of a Systems Design Approach are illustrated through an expla- nation of 6 types of system designs. There are inhibitors which result from the realities of the automotive industry and also drivers which help implement the concept. Implementing the Systems Design Approach will require now skills and affects not only product engineering, but also manufacturing and the supply base. It forces a re-thinking of ourtraditional concepts of dealing with quality. The thrust is that the automotive industry must maintain some component thinking, but the time is appropriate for increased utilization of the Systems Design Approach.