Use of Design Interpretation for developing Next Generation Products in small and medium enterprises

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) involved in manufacturing are often characterised by their manufacturing of a limited number of products involving relatively simple technology. Because of this they are vulnerable to competition. This paper describes a simple methodology to develop the next generation of these products in SMEs which employ the latest technologies to the advantage of the customer. Design Interpretation is a methodology to analyse the designs of current products and extract the design information at different levels of abstraction. These are then used to develop the product and solution concepts of the next generation product. Illustrative examples are given to explain the use of the methodology. Finally a case study on the development of a balancing machine is also given.