Comparison of Existing Agile Approaches in the Context of Mechatronic System Development: Potentials and Limits in Implementation

Abstract

The development of mechatronic systems has always been characterized by continuous handling of uncertainties. This challenge, which is associated with dynamic changes in the development context, is increasingly met by companies in the development of physical systems with the implementation of agile approaches in their development processes. However, since established approaches have their origin in software development, they reach various limits in the context of the development of mechatronic systems, e.g. due to the physical properties of the systems. Other features, such as transparent and flexible project management or targeted and early involvement of customers and users in development processes, can also be implemented in mechatronic system development. In order to derive the potentials and limits of existing agile approaches for the context of mechatronic system development, the present paper compares existing approaches with regard to relevant factors from the context of mechatronic system development. The aim is to create a basis for the targeted development, adaptation and use of agile approaches in the field of mechatronic system development.

A guideline for modelling relations of embodiment and function in agile development

“…The dimensions technological feasibility, economic viability and human desirability are the focus of the development [5]. Design Thinking is particularly suitable in early project phases, where the focus can be placed on the developer and not on compliance with technical constraints [5,14]. This process is also based on an iterative implementation of product development activities and continuous adjustments [5].…”

“…On one hand, the integration of tools that support the systematic use of existing technical knowledge and experiences is missing. On the other hand, a multitude of organizational constraints or the integration of necessary release processes at prescribed maturity levels is not taken into account in the development process [14,15].…”

Methode zur gezielten Identifikation von Marktunsicherheiten zur Unterstützung der Zielsystementstehung

“…Sowohl die frühe Fokussierung hinsichtlich der Kunden-und Anwenderbedürfnisse als auch die kontinuierliche Validierung steigern das Potential der Entwicklungsprojekte hinsichtlich ihres erfolgreichen Abschlusses [4]. Eine Implementierung dieser agilen Ansätze ist auch für die Mechatroniksystementwicklung von Relevanz, allerdings lassen sich diese, unter anderem aufgrund der Rahmenbedingungen der physischen Produktentwicklung, nicht einfach übernehmen [7]. So hat die Validierung in der Mechatroniksystementwicklung beispielsweise einen geringen Stellenwert, bzw.…”

Untitled

“…This makes the integration of agile approaches into other companies more difficult and requires a high degree of customization. Heimicke et al (2019), who evaluated potentials and limitations of the approaches in mechatronic system development, points out that the current approaches are well suited for their respective purposes. "However, they lack the conscious integration of technical or process-related knowledge" (Heimicke et al 2019).…”