At Boston Engineering, we have built expertise in several core Design for X (DFX) disciplines as part of our DFX Center of Excellence (COE). Let's take a deeper look at each area.
DFX, or Design for X, refers to a systematic approach to designing products and processes to achieve specific objectives or characteristics. The "X" represents various targets like manufacturability, reliability, usability, etc. DFX helps companies optimize their products across the entire product lifecycle.
DFX represents a holistic approach to product development that optimizes the design against multiple objectives. At Boston Engineering, DFX is a core part of our product development process. We focus on several key DFX areas that align with our expertise:
- Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
- Design for Assembly (DFA)
- Design for Cost (DFC)
- Design for Testability (DFT)
- Design for Reliability (DFR)
- Design for Serviceability/Maintainability (DFS)
- Design for Usability (DFU)
- Design for Modularity (DFMo)
Learn more about Design for X (DFX) at Boston engineering: Boston Engineering Design for X
The Focus Areas of the Boston Engineering DFX Approach
Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
DFM focuses on optimizing the manufacturing process by designing components and products that can be reliably produced within cost, quality, and time constraints. Our DFM approach includes:
• Simplifying designs for easier production with less process steps
• Utilizing common parts and materials when possible
• Designing parts for optimum manufacturability on available processes (injection molding, machining, etc.)
• Minimizing need for complex tooling and fixtures
• Eliminating secondary operations like drilling, tapping, etc. when feasible
• Considering capabilities of manufacturing partners early in the design process
Design for Assembly (DFA)
DFA deals with optimizing the product assembly process. Our DFA expertise includes:
• Reducing overall part count in assemblies
• Designing parts that self-locate and self-fasten when possible
• Minimizing reorientation of parts during assembly
• Eliminating adjustments and calibrations in assembly when possible
• Reducing skilled labor requirements in assembly
• Optimizing assembly steps, sequences, and handling
Design for Cost (DFC)
DFC focuses on meeting cost targets through design optimization. Our DFC capabilities include:
• Estimating manufacturing costs early through detailed production analysis
• Tracking cost breakdowns of materials, labor, tooling, etc.
• Targeting high cost drivers for reduction or elimination
• Utilizing common parts and processes to maximize volumes
• Simplifying components for easier production
• Evaluating alternative materials, processes, sourcing options
Design for Testability (DFT)
We design products with testing in mind to verify performance and reduce cost of testing. DFT tactics include:
• Incorporating test points and interfaces for electrical/electronic modules
• Designing mechanical assemblies for easy fixturing and access during testing
• Defining critical test parameters and tolerances upfront
• Utilizing modeling and simulation to enable virtual testing when possible
• Specifying standardized tests using industry best practices
• Designing products for automated testing when applicable
Design for Reliability (DFR)
To meet reliability goals, we utilize techniques like:
• Selecting components with sufficient quality and ratings for the application
• Performing derating, FMEA, thermal analysis, etc. to ensure robust design
• Adding redundancy into the design where necessary
• Specifying materials, surface finishes, etc. suitable for the operating environment
• Running HALT/HASS testing to uncover failure modes and mechanisms
• Reviewing legacy field performance data to inform reliability improvements
Design for Serviceability/Maintainability (DFS)
We design products for service and maintenance throughout their lifecycle. DFX techniques include:
- Designing modules/components for easy removal/replacement
- Incorporating self-diagnostics capabilities and error logging/reporting
- Specifying quick-access panels and fasteners for common repair tasks
- Defining preventative maintenance schedules to maximize uptime
- Minimizing service parts inventory through commonality and modularity
- Creating detailed service documentation and training for field technicians
Design for Usability (DFU)
DFU focuses on optimizing the user experience. Our DFU expertise includes:
• User research to understand needs, workflows, and environments
• Prototyping interfaces for user feedback
• Applying human factors standards appropriate for the product
• Iterating designs based on usability testing
• Validating designs through final user testing
Design for Modularity (DFMo)
DFMo involves creating interchangeable components that enable product flexibility. Our DFMo capabilities include:
• Identifying common subsystems, modules and interfaces
• Defining modular architectures balancing flexibility and cost
• Utilizing common components and production processes
• Designing interfaces enabling field upgrades and enhancements
While it's tempting to rely solely on internal resources and capabilities, working with an experienced Design for X firm can offer a multitude of benefits that accelerate the design, development, and performance of your new or existing product. These benefits include a streamlined process, cost controls, accelerated timelines, and mitigation of failure risks - before the product has even launched! Learn more about the value of strategic Design for X partnerships with Boston Engineering.
Understanding the Importance of a DFX approach
Applying Design for X (DFX) methodologies upfront in product development optimizes the entire lifecycle by improving manufacturability, testability, reliability, usability, and other critical characteristics. This avoids costly redesigns later on, facilitates high-quality products that satisfy customers, reduces manufacturing and service costs, and supports flexibility through modularity and platforms. The holistic perspective of DFX drives efficient, cost-effective delivery of successful products that provide competitive advantage. Investing in DFX early pays dividends across the entire product lifespan.
-1.png?width=2000&height=279&name=MED%20Coffee%20Talk%20Mastering%20Use%20Cases%20%26%20Cybersecurity%20(2)-1.png)
Impossible Challenge? Try Us.
Selecting a partner to help you complete your design project is a valuable option to reduce project duration and save money.
The Boston Engineering product development system encompasses DFX to ensure a smooth product launch and success in the marketplace. Boston Engineering has DFX knowledge and experience to address aspects and values of a product such as manufacturability, test, reliability, safety, serviceability, cost, and compliance with industry standards and government regulations.
Ready to Begin your next DFX Project?
Whether you’ve created a new technology, or have an innovative way to use an existing solution, Boston Engineering will turn your ideas into reality. Our experts and Industry Partners will enhance your current team or manage the entire Product Development Process from Market Analysis to Production. Don't leave complex projects or high visibility product launches to chance. Know you're going to get the results you want by working with industry leaders in design, development, and deployment of innovative products driven by Novel Engineering. Contact Boston Engineering Today to get started.
No matter the challenge, our team possesses the expertise in the engineering disciplines and technologies you need to bring your vision to life. Impossible Challenge? Try Us.
Imagine your Impact: Stay up-to date- with the latest insights and trends we're watching. Add your email address below and sign up for a Monthly Summary of our most impactful posts!
