Sep 18, 2014 -- Machine design is not guided by any rigid rules; however design is not a random procedure either. There are a number of factors that can aid a machine design process.  It is very important to understand the process of mechanical design and follow this process to develop machine/heavy equipment designs that deliver the best performance. Let us have a look at the general procedure for machine design that helps an engineer tailor dedicated mechanical equipment designs that perform better, are durable and are easy to manufacture.

Machine Design Procedure:

• Understand the Requirements:
  The first step of engineering a high performance machine is recognising the need i.e. understanding the purpose of design. Preparing a complete statement of the problem that includes details about the aim or purpose for which the mechanical design project is proposed.
  
  
• Analyse and Evaluate the Design Mechanism:
  Shortlist and analyse various possible mechanisms for the machine. Select the best mechanism for your design that will give this machine the desired motion.
  
  
• Analysis of Forces:
  Analyse how every component of a machine with fit in and interact with each other, also analyse what forces act on each and every component of the mechanical equipment and the energy transmitted by each component.
  
  
• Design of Elements:
  All the components of equipment are subject to stress and other forces during operation. These stresses affect the strength of the machine. Hence analysing these stresses is important to design mechanical equipment that is durable and can endure the stresses of real world working conditions.
  
  
• Material Analysis and Selection:
  Based on the analysis of stresses that work upon the machine components individually select the appropriate material for machine component design.
  
  
• Design Iteration for Manufacturing:
  Design changes, that do not affect the performance of the product but facilitates easy manufacturing the machine and its components is advisable.
  
  
• Creation of Detailed Mechanical Drawings:
  Create the detailed drawings of each component and assembly of the machine. Complete specification using CAD capabilities can be of great assistance for manufacturing process.

About Author: Nikunj Patel is a design engineer working with Hi-Tech Outsourcing Services for the past 4 years. He loves designing specialized industrial equipments and can always be found in the lab discussing, brainstorming & tweaking designs. He has also worked on AEC and Industrial projects taking interest in every aspect of design & analysis.