Conceptual design
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea IVF AB - Avdelningen för materialapplikationer |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 600 000 |
| Project duration | November 2012 - October 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The aim was to provide guidelines for research within the field of conceptual design and the goal was to identify the edge of the research area, industrial applicability and recommend research methodology. The goal has been met. Academic and industrial surveys have been conducted and compiled in Swerea IVF report 13007 along with recommendations on how research can be developed with respect to both research quality and utilization. Activities for the dissemination of the project results in the magazines and, seminars and on the internet is planned.
Results and expected effects
The industrial use of established academic methods is limited. Thus a thorough scientific analysis of existing methods in order to increase the industrial availability or develop completely new basic principles for conceptual design is recommended. Company interviews indicate clearly the importance of early prototyping, a fact which is most evident in small and medium-sized enterprises. We recommend the research methods Design Research Methodology, case study methodology, action research, or combinations of these.
Approach and implementation
Abstract from more than 300 scientific publications were studied through search in the database Scopus and more than 30 publications were selected and analysed in detail in terms of focus, research methodology and industrial applicability. A study on the applicable research methodology within concept design was implemented. Ampersand, Husqvarna, UniCarriers Manufacturing, Saab Aeuronautics and Hasselblads were interviewed and their need for academic research were analysed. The investigation is compiled in Swerea IVF report 13007.