The Impact of ``Double-R/Half-M´´ on Design

The achievement of R&M 2000 goals is intrinsically tied to the product-design process. Timely participation by all disciplines, thus creating a new synergistic product design environment, is essential. The number of design evaluation criteria has appreciably increased. Tools for rapid quantitative design evaluation against all criteria are important during design synthesis. This paper discusses the new product-design environment with regard to design automation and the more difficult issue of establishing the needed interdisciplinary culture.