Concurrent engineering control without complexity

The need to design diagnostic systems in parallel with prime systems has become commonplace. During one such program, an approach to defining and sharing needed information that is both simple and effective was found. Accomplishment in parallel of operational system and automated test equipment (ATE) designs in a concurrent engineering environment requires continuous identification and management of all interfaces between subsystems as the design evolves. This is facilitated by grouping interfaces by category and managing changes to them using an interactive, parallel, structured process. A single document, an interoperability matrix, covers both the prime system and the diagnostic system. It can be used as a reference throughout the design process. The technique of controlling interfaces through an interoperability matrix is described. The technique fully supports the concurrent engineering process, conferring the benefits of simplicity, speed, and manageability.<>