On the Identification of design Feature Characteristics

In this paper it is argued that the core of design features is design characteristics, i.e. the design attributes which define the design (the results from design work) and determine the behaviour. It is asserted that design involves work on entireties, e.g. shape detail, its contribution to functionality and its production. Therefor a definition of features as relationships between product design characteristics and life system characteristics is proposed. The life phase systems are the systems which gradually realise the product life, e.g. the production system, the transport system and the service system.