Case studies
Choice and use of materials

We illustrate the material selection method with two case studies: one from traditional design, the other from innovative design.

• Traditional design is the optimization of an existing solution. A product already exists that meets the market's needs, at a standard price (hence a cost target that must not be exceeded). A design + material + process solution(s) already exists, which the selection procedure should at least enable to be found, supplemented by better solutions. There are already economic circuits (demand and market, design, production, industrial property, marketing) for the product to be designed, with which we will have to compete or negotiate.

• Innovative design corresponds to the creation of a new product for a new need. The functional and economic specifications are new...