Automotive Product Development: A Systems Engineering Implementation

This book is about how to develop future automotive products by applying the latest methodologies based on a systems engineering approach and by taking into account many issues facing the auto industry such as meeting government safety, emissions and fuel economy regulations, incorporating advances in new technology applications in structural materials, power trains, vehicle lighting systems, displays and telematics, and satisfying the very demanding customer. It is financially disastrous for any automotive company to create a vehicle that very few people want. To design an automotive product that will be successful in the marketplace requires carefully orchestrated teamwork of experts from many disciplines, substantial amount of resources, and application of proven techniques at the right time during the product development process. Automotive Product Development: A Systems Engineering Implementation is intended for company management personnel and graduate students in engineering, business management and other disciplines associated with the development of automotive and other complex products. TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface Website Materials Acknowledgments Author PART I: Automotive Product Development Process Chapter 1 Introduction: Automotive Product Development Introduction Complex Product, Many inputs, Many Designers and Engineers Basic Definitions of Process, System and Systems Engineering Process System Systems Engineering Product Development Processes and Phases in Product Development Automotive Product as a System Automotive Product Development Process What is Automotive Product Development? Flow Diagram of Automotive Product Development Timing Chart of the Automotive Product Development Understanding Customer Needs Using the Customer Needs to Deliver the "Whole" Product Program Scope, Timings and Challenges Scope of Vehicle Development Programs Program Timings Important Considerations in Managing Vehicle Programs Some Frequently Asked Questions during Vehicle Development Decision Making During Product Development Disciplines Involved in Product Development Selecting the Program Leader Role of Early Vehicle Concept Development Formation of Team Structure and Teams Treating Suppliers as Partners Other Internal and External Factors Affecting the Vehicle Programs Internal Factors External Factors Importance, Advantages and Disadvantages of Systems Engineering Importance of Systems Engineering Advantages and Disadvantages of Systems Engineering Concludin