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
- Exact requirements
- Technical platform
- Use cases
- Risk management
- User interface descriptions
- System interface descriptions
- Design criteria
- Block diagram design.
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 you should consider who the users are (children, trained personnel, etc.) 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, we have common legislation. 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.
You should always consider the worst-case scenarios. Ask yourself questions such as "Is it possible that ... will happen? If then, ...?
When you ask yourself these questions, you will find new aspects to consider. Make your own checklist!
Why
To ensure that the system-to-be fulfils all demands, withstands the environment in which it will operate and is safe to use.
