Abstract: Generalized performance of product is used as an effective tool to drive the whole process of conceptual design of mechanical product. Generalized performance of product is defined by utilizing the deduction of axiom of “object structure” which is combined with “P-E ” system. And it is classified into structure performance and behavior performance which are formally described separately, and product symbol model relevant to the generalized performance of product is constructed. Then a mechanical product conceptual design method driven by generalized performance is proposed. Ideal mapping, redundant mapping and coupling mapping which are possibly caused by the process of mapping between structure and performance are analyzed. Illustration and algorithm of the process of conceptual design of mechanical product driven by generalized performance are given. Finally, the conceptual design of injection unit which is one of the important parts of injection moulding machine is taken as an example to illustrate the application of that method in the actual conceptual design of mechanical product and to certify that the method is correct, effective and practical.

Key words: “P-E ” system, Conceptual design, General performance, Injection moulding machine, Object structuring axiom