Abstract: Seven types of primary mappings unit, which exist between functions, behaviors and carriers generally in conceptual design process, are identified according to the characteristics of the conceptual design of mechanical products. Hierarchical function solving framework with hybrid mappings is set up by establishing the logical relationships between different types of primary mappings unit. Three kinds of existing models for function solving in conceptual design are compared with the proposed framework. The function solving of “link cloth” in garment industry is used as a case study to show the effective of the proposed framework.

Key words: Conceptual design, Hierarchical function solving, Hybrid mappings, Primary mappings unit type