Dimensioning

What

To find the strengths and limitations of the system-to-be and dimension it accordingly.

How

The dish

Find the strengths and the limitations of the system-to-be and dimension it accordingly.

Ingredients

• all previously produced artefacts

Process

Describe the environment in which the system-to-be will operate. Consider the following aspects, then make a list and determine the importance of each aspect:

• Special environments, such as ships, hospitals, deserts, space, etc.
• High or low temperatures, humidity, etc.
• Mechanical strength. Here considerations about who the users are (children, trained personnel, etc.) is needed and how the system will be used.
• Electromagnetic environments which include unforeseen disturbances, such as lightning, Electro-Static Discharges (ESD) and Electromagnetic Fields (EMF).
• The use (medical, industrial, household, etc.).
• Special legislations. In Europe, common legislation exists. However, outside of Europe, legislation may vary from country to country. In some areas, e.g. within the refrigeration industry, there is special legislation.
• The lifetime of the product.

From this list it should be possible to dimension all parts of the system-to-be.

Always consider the worst-case scenarios. Ask questions such as: "Is it possible that ... will happen? If then, ...?

When these questions are asked, new aspects will be found to consider. Based on experience a company specific check-list may be helpful.

Why

To ensure that the system-to-be fulfils all demands, withstands the environment in which it will operate and is safe to use.