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Methodology
The purpose of this methodology chapter is to describe the methods by which the project
is approached and to clarify the overall structure of this project thesis.
To achieve an efficient product development process, this project thesis uses a systematic
engineering procedure based on VDI 2221 - Systematic approach to the development and
design of technical systems and products [6]. It is empirically shown that this systematic
approach provides an effective and problem-directed approach to design, which facilitates
and rationalises the establishment of optimum solutions [7, p. 10]. The guideline, devel-
oped by the Association of German Engineers (VDI), proposes a generic approach to the
design of technical systems and products. It aims for general applicability and has there-
fore been modified for the specific tasks of this project thesis.
Figure 3.1 shows the phases of the development process and the key results of each phase.
The detailed working procedures of each phase, including strategies and principles, are not
listed here. Special emphasis is placed on the iterative nature of the approach, and the
sequence of steps that is not to be considered rigid [7, p. 10].
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