Editing Product lifecycle (section)

==== Describe, define, develop, test, analyze and validate ====
This step is where the detailed design and development of the product's form starts, progressing to prototype testing, from pilot release to full product launch. It can also involve redesign and ramping to improve existing products and [[planned obsolescence]].<ref>{{cite book|editor-last=Cooper |editor-first=Tim |date=2010 |title=Longer Lasting Products: Alternatives to the Throwaway Society |location=Farnham, UK |publisher=Gower |isbn=9780566088087}}</ref>
CAD is the primary tool used for design and development. This can be simple 2D drawing/drafting or 3D parametric feature-based solid/surface modeling. Such software may include Hybrid Modeling, [[Reverse Engineering]], KBE ([[knowledge-based engineering]]), NDT ([[Nondestructive testing]]), and Assembly construction.

This step covers many engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, electronic, software ([[embedded system|embedded]]), and domain-specific, such as architectural, aerospace, and automotive. Along with creating geometry, the components and product assemblies are analyzed. Simulation, validation, and optimization tasks are carried out using CAE ([[computer-aided engineering]]) software, either integrated into the CAD package or stand-alone. These are used to perform tasks such as Stress analysis, FEA ([[finite element analysis]]), [[kinematics]], [[computational fluid dynamics]] (CFD), and mechanical event simulation (MES). CAQ ([[computer-aided quality]]) is used for tasks such as Dimensional [[tolerance (engineering)]] analysis. Another task performed at this stage is sourcing bought-out components, possibly with the aid of [[procurement]] systems.