Chapter 3: Sustainable Products and Future Reuse

Title: Through-Life Change Prediction and Management

Author(s): Rene Keller, Claudia M Eckert, P John Clarkson

Address: University of Cambridge Engineering Design Centre, Department of Engineering, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom | University of Cambridge Engineering Design Centre, Department of Engineering, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom | University of Cambridge Engineering Design Centre, Department of Engineering, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom

Reference: International Conference on Product Lifecycle Management 2008 pp. 212 - 221

Abstract/Summary: Changes occur at all stages in the product life. This paper presents a methodology to support designers managing changes through the entire lifecycle of a system, by providing them with a means of assessing potential knock-on changes across a system using a series of related product connectivity models. It is centred on the use of the risk-based Change Prediction Method (CPM), which is extended beyond its original use in the design stage of product development to cover all life-stages of a system. Conceptual design is supported by helping designers identify areas in a system that are highly susceptible to change and evaluate solution alternatives. During detail design, this methodology facilitates design freeze planning. Operational life-stages are supported through predicting knock-on effects of environmental changes and upgrades.

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