ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a basic understanding of the systems engineering process and its iterative nature. The iterations are necessary because many decisions that are made during the vehicle development process require consideration of alternative configurations of systems and system characteristics. The generated requirements and functional allocations are iterated and synthesized into possible and feasible product configurations till a balanced vehicle design is achieved. The product visualization in the design reviews is facilitated through reviews of drawings, computer-aided design models, and physical models. The vehicle development process begins with a thorough understanding of customer needs, business needs, and government requirements. An automotive company has many types of customer. The auto company also has its own business need to grow its revenues and profits by satisfying its internal and external customers. The selected vehicle concepts are generally shown to representative groups of customers in market research clinics to help select one concept for detailed engineering work.
