Design for Manufacturing (DFM)

• Concerned with reducing overall part production cost
• Minimize complexity of manufacturing
• Use common axes and common processes

Design for Assembly (DFA)

• Concerned with reducing product assembly cost
• Minimize number and complexity of assembly operations
• Individual parts may be more complex in design

Both DFM and DFA seek to reduce material, overhead, and labor cost. They both shorten the product development cycle time. Both DFM and DFA seek to utilize standards to reduce cost.

Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) are now commonly referred to as a single methodology, Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA).

 

updated November 2024