Application of multiple domain feature mapping in design for cost (DFC)

Design For Cost (DFC) is a embranchment of Design For X (DFX). Using multiple domain feature mapping theory, we decompose the DFC’s feature domain. It includes four design feature domains (concept design domain, initial general design domain, general design domain and detail design domain) and six cost feature domains (manufacturing cost domain, assembly cost domain, sale cost domain, usage cost domain, repair cost domain, recycle and disposal cost domain). Then we establish multiple domains feature mapping relations that the design domain is the core in DFC. Using artificial neural network (ANN), simulation and grey system theory, we initially attain that the design parameters can be mapped to the cost parameters. This paper presents work is a base of estimating the LCC in DFC.