Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA)

Design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA) is a proven design methodology used to optimize part costs and quality, while reducing time-to-market development. Part of the award-winning Manufacturing Insights video series, this program features an interview with Nicholas Dewhurst of Boothroyd Dewhurst. He explains the concepts and use of DFMA in product analysis to understand the drivers of cost, and the interaction of the individual pieces within the product to optimize design, manufacturability, and assembly.

Two companies who have successfully used DFMA are also highlighted, including:

• MDS-SCIEX, a scientific instrumentation manufacturer, where implementation of DFMA philosophies helped reduce the product development design cycle for their API 2000 mass spectrometer from 48 months to 16 months.
• Plug Power, a fuel cell manufacturer, where the integral use of DFMA facilitated development of their Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell systems at the lowest cost while emphasizing three key elements: system manufacturability, serviceability, and sustainability.