A systematic approach for functional decomposition of mechatronic system design using mechatronic design quotient (MDQ)

In Engineering, designers encounter many challenges due to the increasing complexity of mechatronic systems and the presence of multiple domains and stringent functionality. The elimination of different design alternatives in an early phase without the need for more detail is a common practice. The huge search space makes the identification of design concepts a tedious process. In this paper, a systematic methodology is presented to facilitate the relationship between the functional requirements and conceptual design solutions. Mechatronic design quotient (MDQ), which represents the “goodness” of a mechatronic design, is used to help facilitate the decision-making process of the conceptual solutions. A case study of the design of an electro-mechanical conveyor system is presented to illustrate the proposed methodology.