Analyze, consolidate and improve the product development process at Parker Hannifin QCDE through implementation of DFMA principles

Abstract: Parker Hannifin QCDE aim to eliminate as much wasted time, materials and resources as achievable by implementing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly principles into a modified version of their Product Development Process. The modified Product Development Process was developed within this project with the objective of aiding the company to remain competitive within their field, as well as continue to efficiently develop and produce high quality products.   A literature study was performed to gain a greater understanding of the multiple Design for Excellence methods and their possibilities to enhance the Product Development Process at Parker Hannifin QCDE. The literature study included various sources such as academic books and scientific articles.   An empirical study was conducted and the use of the current Internal Product Development Process was evaluated in conjunction with a detailed evaluation of the designated coupling. An additional aspect that was explored includes an evaluation of the extent of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly that is implemented into the current Internal Product Development Process.   The Generation chapter of this thesis outlines the sequence and process implemented for generating the modified Internal Product Development Process and implementing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly. The results of this thesis project included implementing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly in the form of checklists. The multiple Design for Excellence checklists were inspired in part by the information obtained from the literature study and the authors interpretation. The finished concept has been provided to Parker Hannifin QCDE in the form of a pamphlet including instructions of how to implement the checklists into the modified Internal Product development process.   The discussion chapter within this report consists of a conclusion and deliberation regarding the methodology used within this thesis. The results obtained from this thesis have been dissected and evaluated along with implications and potential weaknesses in the work.