Page 26 - Handbook of Biomechatronics

Introduction 19

elements. Although it may not be possible to provide full descriptions for
every probable system through this reductionist approach, a vast majority
can be comfortably synthesized, analyzed, and handled. The important issue
at hand is that in all such elements, manipulation of the Poynting vector
provides an established mathematical expression defining an energetic
characteristic which is used to describe the causal structure.
The approach provides a solid mode of thought toward modeling which
could also be adopted as the basis for synthesis. If the rules for interconnec-
tions that are based on causality are observed, it is possible to conceptualize
many novel biomechatronic systems which are physically realizable and
causally valid but independent of any disciplinary constraints.

12 GENERAL DESIGN METHODOLOGY
12.1 Modification of Systems Approach

Amongmanycontributionsto systematicdesign,thesystemsapproachtakesa
superior position due to its inherent harmony with the concept of systematic
design. The systems approach aims at producing the optimum design
for complex systems and it reflects the general appreciation that complex
problems are best tackled in a series of defined steps. These being problem
definition, goal setting, solution development, solution analysis, solution
evaluation,optimumdecision,andfinallypreparationforphysicalrealization.
A brief study of the proposed steps makes it quite clear that the aim of the
approach is a broad and generalized outline or a frame of action. The appar-
ent overgeneralization is that particular attribute which renders the approach
open to criticism due to an inherent inability to address specific design issues.
Although conceptually acceptable, the generality has left the most important
steps of goal identification and synthesis to the designer’s discretion and his
understanding of disciplinary design techniques. To obtain a general meth-
odology for biomechatronic design, the overgeneralization associated with
the systems approach, or any other systematic approach, has to be overcome.
To begin with, each of the steps set out in the systematic approach take
up on themselves a unique configuration and meaning when applied to a
particular discipline. Although the pattern of the process might have
remained conceptually similar for various designs, the actual process would
be quite different within the structure of various disciplines. To formalize a
structure applicable to many if not all disciplines, it is essential to concentrate
upon those areas in the systems approach or stages of the design process