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SwRI uses a proven design methodology for developing custom products and systems. Click image for a larger view. |
A key component of this methodology is the definition phase, which includes:
Defining the system's purpose
Identifying and describing each task to be performed by the system
Determining sequence of operations necessary to perform each task
Identifying system components
Determining system-to-system interfaces
Defining user-friendly operator interfaces
Performing system failure analysis and establishing fault tolerances
Establishing system test methods and self-diagnostic capabilities
Developing environmental specifications
The table below summarizes some of the tradeoffs associated with the two different system development techniques.
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COTS Development |
Custom System Development |
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Development Cost |
Lower | Higher |
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Development Time |
Shorter | Longer |
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Availability of a Complete Solution |
Not Guaranteed | High |
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Production Cost (low quantity) |
Lower | Higher |
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Production Cost (high quantity) |
Higher | Lower |
SwRI has significant experience with developing both COTS and custom systems. The following links provide brief descriptions of systems that utilize custom design techniques to varying levels.
Examples of Custom Design and Prototype Development Projects
| Communications Devices | Radar Systems |
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For more information about our custom design and prototype development capabilities, or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Mark Moczygemba at mmoczygemba@swri.org or (210) 522-3463.