A distinguishing feature of the DEMCON working method is the combination of a structured, proven project approach and a high level of analytical capacity, creativity and pragmatism. DEMCON has all the necessary disciplines in-house to offer total solutions. Through the integration of disciplines and a strong focus on manageability, it is able to make complex projects successful. With a typical DEMCON project, the feasibility is not self-evident. Before the development phase begins, such projects therefore start with (applied) research.
1. Functional specifications/system concept/technical specifications
- Developing the definition of the problem, together with the client.
- Translating the functional requirements (what) into technical requirements (how) and a system concept.
- Dividing the system concept into hardware and software working packages.
- Dividing the hardware into a mechanical and an electrical working package.
- Providing each working package with the accompanying technical requirements and conditions on the basis of the system concept.
2. Hardware concept/software system architecture
- Selecting construction principles for parts of the mechanical concept.
- Setting up the mechanical model, general dimensioning of the parts and, where necessary, performing concept calculations, analyses, simulations and tests.
- Setting up the electrical block diagram and selecting the principles and main components.
- Selecting a programming method for the software working package.
- Setting up the system architecture and defining the modules, inputs and outputs.
- Drafting the Concept Design Description (CDD) document.
3. Engineering/module design
- Modelling the mechanical model in 3D CAD.
- Determining the electrical layout down to the component level.
- Producing the software module design (algorithms).
4. Technical Product Documentation/module implementation
- Developing the documentation for each working package, consisting of the Technical Product Documentation (TPD) and the Technical Construction Documentation (TCD).
- Implementing the software modules (code).
- If necessary, producing the first draft of the user manual.
5. Part manufacturing/hardware assembly/module testing and integration
- Manufacturing or procuring all parts.
- Assembling the different mechanical, electrical and electronic modules of the system.
- Testing the integrated software modules.
6. Systeem integration
- Combining the hardware and software and optimising the parameters in the operational and servo regulations.
7. Testing & de-bugging
- Performing functional tests in order to verify the specified requirements regarding e.g. accuracies, motion scopes, speeds and safety provisions.
Depending on the client’s needs (proof of principle, prototype/system, pre-production or pre-production), this V model is therefore followed once, twice or three times, with a broader scope on each occasion. From proof of principle via prototype to pre-production; the proven formula for a sound project approach.