Design Engineering (DE) Phase
The DE phase converts approximate geometries into precise geometries and develops build strategies and assembly details before fabrication engineering begins.
Related Documents: Getting Started Layer Organization Project Delivery Overview
Purpose
Design Engineering bridges the gap between pre-construction estimates and fabrication-ready models. During this phase, engineers:
- Convert client-provided approximate geometry into precise, dimensionally accurate geometry
- Develop build strategies and assembly details
- Create preliminary SKs for client review and structural consultation
- Use nominal dimensions (before contract award / field verification)
Layer Usage
All DE work lives on the 02_CWKA-DE layer:
- CON — Construction/guide geometry (reference curves, surfaces). Not for printing.
- PUR — Purchased raw materials organized by Epicor class, using placeholder tags (e.g., MDF1, SG2) when part numbers are not yet determined.
Placeholder layers are acceptable during DE — they will be replaced with proper Epicor part numbers via the toolkit during FE modeling.
Workflow
- Receive incoming documents — Retrieve architect drawings, spec sheets, and coordination documents from
01_INCOMING_Documents/. - Analyze scope — Review the working set, identify the scope of your job, and understand the design intent.
- Build construction geometry — Create guide curves, reference surfaces, and construction lines on DE::CON.
- Develop precise geometry — Model materials at nominal dimensions on DE::PUR with placeholder material names.
- Create SKs — Produce sketches for quick feedback from relevant parties (structural, client meetings, pre-submittal).
- Develop build strategy — Determine how assemblies will be fabricated, shipped, and installed. Document decisions.
- Transition to FE — Once the design is confirmed, move to the FE Modeling phase, working on the 03_CWKA-FE layers with proper Epicor part numbers.
Key Principles
- Use nominal dimensions during DE — Field verification comes later. Get the design intent correct first.
- Placeholder layers are temporary — They must be replaced with proper Epicor material layers before release.
- SKs are not submittal documents — They are informal feedback tools. Do not include them in the submission set.
- Document build strategies early — Decisions made during DE affect everything downstream. Surface questions and alternatives before committing to fabrication-level modeling.