Page 176 - Design for Six Sigma a Roadmap for Product Development

Design for Six Sigma Project Algorithm 149

5.5.1 Derive and analyze concepts
(DFSS algorithm step 4)
The key mechanisms for arriving at the best possible concept design or
process solution entity are (1) axiomatic design, (2) TRIZ methodology,
and (3) the method of “controlled convergence,” which was developed
by Dr. Stuart Pugh (1991) as part of his solution selection process.
Controlled convergence is a solution iterative selection process that
allows alternate convergent (analytical) and divergent (synthetic)
thinking to be experienced by the team. The method alternates
between generation and selection activities (Fig. 5.9). We suggest the
following enhancement to the controlled convergence method:

Initial concept

Concepts reduced

New concepts generated

Reduction

Addition

Figure 5.9 Controlled convergence method.
Concept
selected