Minimum Design Index Calculator

Minimum Design Index Formula:

\[ DI_{min} = \frac{(CI \times P_c) + (WI \times P_w) + (TI \times P_t)}{100} \]

Cost Index (CI):

(0-10 scale)

Cost Priority (%):

Weight Index (WI):

(0-10 scale)

Weight Priority (%):

Period Index (TI):

(0-10 scale)

Period Priority (%):

Minimum Design Index (DI_min):

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1. What is the Minimum Design Index?

The Minimum Design Index is a comparable quantity in conceptual design phase which considers Cost, Weight and Time period indices. It provides a comprehensive assessment of design efficiency by combining multiple configuration parameters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Minimum Design Index formula:

\[ DI_{min} = \frac{(CI \times P_c) + (WI \times P_w) + (TI \times P_t)}{100} \]

Where:

\( CI \) — Cost Index (summation of cost configuration parameters on 0-10 scale)
\( P_c \) — Cost Priority (%)
\( WI \) — Weight Index (summation of weight configuration parameters on 0-10 scale)
\( P_w \) — Weight Priority (%)
\( TI \) — Period Index (summation of period configuration parameters on 0-10 scale)
\( P_t \) — Period Priority (%)

Explanation: The equation combines three key design parameters (cost, weight, and time) with their respective priority weights to calculate an overall design efficiency index.

3. Importance of Design Index Calculation

Details: The Minimum Design Index provides a quantitative measure to compare different design concepts, optimize resource allocation, and make informed decisions during the conceptual design phase.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all indices on a 0-10 scale (best=10, worst=0) and priority percentages (0-100%). Ensure the sum of priorities (Pc + Pw + Pt) equals 100% for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 0-10 scale for indices?
A: The 0-10 scale provides a standardized way to evaluate different design parameters, where 10 represents optimal performance and 0 represents unacceptable performance.

Q2: How should priorities be assigned?
A: Priorities should reflect the relative importance of each factor (cost, weight, time) according to project requirements and stakeholder preferences.

Q3: What is considered a good Minimum Design Index value?
A: Higher values indicate better overall design efficiency. The maximum possible value depends on the specific indices and priorities used.

Q4: Can this formula be used for other design parameters?
A: Yes, the formula can be extended to include additional parameters by adding more terms to the numerator and ensuring priorities sum to 100%.

Q5: How often should the design index be recalculated?
A: The index should be recalculated whenever design parameters change significantly or when priorities are updated during the design process.