Product Design Test Using the Matrix of Functions and Functionality

After detecting the customer needs it is possible to define functional requirements and set the design goal. The latter is represented by a target defined specification list of requirements. Such defined functions can serve as a basis for the concept, created by means of the morphological matrix. The optimum solution is selected after a rough assessment of results from the technical and economic points of view. The current procedures do not allow tracking links between functions and technical systems during the subsequent phases of product development, which can be realized by the details of the as-built product. Such technical systems or sub-systems are usually called products or their sub-assemblies. The article presents the form of the matrix of functions and functionality (MFF) that in principle defines the elements, parts, assemblies and the product itself according to the level of the product’s structure. On the other hand, it also defines the required functions. They can be ranked according to the levels of functional structures. The form of the matrix of functions and functionality is necessary in order to allow recognizing the quality of the final solution for a product. The article presents the main characteristics and the criterion for defining functions and functionalities. The model was tested on two industrial products.