DO FUNCTIONS EXIST?
Year: 2011
Editor: Culley, S.J.; Hicks, B.J.; McAloone, T.C.; Howard, T.J. & Reich, Y.
Author: Fantoni, Gualtiero; Apreda, Riccardo; Gabelloni, Donata; Bonaccorsi, Andrea
Series: ICED
Section: Design Theory and Research Methodology
Page(s): 304-313
Abstract
The paper proposes a model where functions are not considered as primitive objects in themselves but rather as a complex network of relationships between different, more fundamental entities.
Exploring the connections between goals, behaviors, operations, etc. at various levels has several advantages. It allows integrating in a unique framework different approaches to design, from the FBS model to Functional Basis one and provides tools for a more powerful analysis. The new picture can also help modeling affordances, misuses, redundant functions, failures and so on.
The representation of the relationships between functions, user’s goals and expectations, behaviours and physical features in the case study of a common glass shows how the model can help designing better products, and at the same time illustrates the various critical issues in the model itself and suggests possible directions of investigation.
Keywords: FUNCTION-BEHAVIOUR-STRUCTURE; FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS; ENGINEERING DESIGN