A Framework of Integrated Design Process to Achieve Efficient Design of Complex Equipment

The main purpose of this study is to explore the cognitive gap between different fields in the process of complex equipment design. The complexity of equipment products is reflected in the complicated nature of the technical systems and the uncontrollability of human factors. The current literature mainly focuses on the knowledge management and knowledge reuse of subsystems based on technology and engineering. Limited research has been conducted to examine
interdisciplinary knowledge integration and adoption to achieve efficient design solution for complex equipment designs. To address the above research gaps, this study adopted the questionnaire and case studies approaches to investigate the relationship among design problems, design knowledge and functional teams’ coordination in the process of complex equipment product design.
Nonaka’s model of knowledge creation, also known as the Socialization, Externalization, Combination, Internalization (SECI) Model was applied when analyzing the collected data.This paper expounds on the key role of knowledge
integration in managing design and development process of complex equipment products, and constructs the framework by which to achieve the efficient design of complex equipment.