Integrated Design Analysis for Product Simplification

A systematic methodology is presented for product structure simplification through an integration of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) with the Theory of Invention Problem Solving (TRIZ). A new functional model is combined with a selection of TRIZ problem solving tools that are identified as effective in product structure simplification. DFMA analysis is used to evaluate alternative concepts. Application of the combined approach is illustrated through a case study of a heavy duty stapler.