A New Functional Representation Scheme for Conceptual Modeling of Mechatronic Systems

Abstract

Traditional mechatronic system designs focus on generation of design parameters, simulation of performance and behavior, but overlook functional design. Obtaining the best possible design parameters requires the representation and analysis of the functional space. In particular, representing a mechatronic system needs to account for various functions, flows, semantics and relationships that exist in each discipline. To this end, a new functional representation scheme for conceptual modeling of mechatronic systems is presented. The functional representation scheme standardizes and characterizes functional design in view of functional requirements generation. The proposed scheme incorporates the essential features of the disciplines of a mechatronic system through its functions, flows and relationships. This scheme is illustrated through the example of a parallel robot.