Reduced Development Time Utilizing Correlation Matrices to Identify Parallel Engine Tests 970271

Testing and validation of automobile engines is one major contributor that extends vehicle development time. One possibility to reduce development time is to use parallel testing rather than a sequential approach. However, a methodology that would encompass the entire product development stage was not available until /1/ “Application of QFD Correlation Matrix Technologies to Reduce Engine Development” was introduced. This paper builds on the methodology introduced in /1/, and suggests a testing sequence to reduce engine development time. Correlation matrices are utilized to identify critical engine components required to initiate parallel subsystem testing. The critical components identified permit a subsystem testing and validation stage that ensure similar subsystem performance in its natural environment with a high level of confidence. This confidence level is calculated in the matrix validation stage which allows the user to initiate only tests that will increase corporate knowledge. This will prevent premature testing of subsystems which results in increased development time and costs.