The role that simulation plays in design processes is changing. Traditionally, it was expensive and time-intensive, used only at the later stages. But new forms of simulation and analysis are more accessible than ever, and it can now offer benefits throughout your design process — from planning and concept development right through preliminary and detailed designs, testing and production ramp-up.
However, any time you incorporate a new stage or tool to your processes, it comes at a cost. Running simulation still requires time and some form of financial outlay — purchasing software and in-house training, or engaging an outside partner.
So how do you decide if the cost is worth it?
Implement Simulation Strategically
You need to clearly identify what you want it to achieve, in the context of the goals for the product you’re designing.
Here are six questions for any design project that will help you determine at what stages you should incorporate simulation:
- At each stage of the design lifecycle, what information and level of detail would be helpful?
- What methods can best acquire that information? For example, simulation, analytical calculations, physical testing, etc.
- How easily could that analysis be attained?
- Compared to another method, what are the costs of the analysis in time, personnel, software and external services?
- What are the potential risks of not performing analysis and instead moving to the next stage, only to find a design flaw later?
- Will conducting analysis at this stage reduce the costs of higher-level analysis and testing later?
These questions are deceptively simple, and getting accurate answers is not always straightforward. Working with simulation experts at the outset of a project can help you pre-emptively address design challenges.
When correctly applied to a project, simulation should deliver significant benefits that outweigh any costs by reducing design iterations, quality deficiencies, or unhappy customers.
For more, download our comprehensive guide: “How engineering simulation can improve your product development process: A decision framework for more successful projects.”
