Hierarchical design models in the mechatronic product development process of synchronous machines

This paper presents an approach for using hierarchical models in the design of mechatronic systems. The utilization and proper combination of solution principles from different domains of mechatronics allow an extended variety and quality of principal solutions, where hierarchical models serve as very important tools for complex design tasks. In order to master the mechatronic design approach and to benefit from it as much as possible, a hierarchical design process is proposed, in which the domain-specific design tasks need not be integrated as a whole on the mechatronic level of the design task. Consequently the models should cover the different views on a system as well as the different degrees of detailing which leads from a hierarchy of models to a hierarchy of design parameters. The specific views of the object represent the relevant phenomena/effects of interest such as geometry, dynamics, stability or material and are used as interfaces for the design engineer during her/his work. Their description by significant quantities is used for analyzing different mechatronic design concepts. The approach is demonstrated by studying the activities during the design process of synchronous machines. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.