Trade-Off Curves
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Trade-off curves document the relationships between design parameters, showing how improving one attribute affects others.
Definition
Trade-off curves are graphical representations of the relationships between design parameters, showing how improving one attribute affects others. For example, a trade-off curve might show how battery weight affects vehicle range, or how wall thickness affects both part strength and material cost. These curves capture engineering knowledge in reusable form, enabling set-based concurrent engineering by showing which design spaces are feasible and where the optimal balance lies. Trade-off curves prevent reinventing knowledge on each project and enable faster, better-informed decisions.
Examples
A machining operation has trade-off curves relating cutting speed, tool life, and surface finish. When a new part requires specific surface finish, engineers can immediately identify the feasible range of cutting speeds and expected tool life—knowledge captured from years of experience.
Key Points
- Capture engineering knowledge in reusable, visual form
- Enable set-based decisions by showing feasible design space
- Prevent repeating analysis for known relationships
- Must be maintained and updated as technology advances
Common Misconceptions
Trade-off curves are just engineering data. They're strategic assets that enable faster development. Organizations that capture and maintain trade-off knowledge outpace those that rediscover it each project.
Once created, trade-off curves are permanent. Technology changes shift the curves. Material advances, manufacturing improvements, and design innovations require updating trade-off knowledge.