Patterns for design in microtechnology

Miniaturization is a trend in mechanical engineering, in which 3D mechanical structures are required. Consequences are changed production and design processes. Furthermore micro-specific design requires in-depth knowledge of production technology. One successful means for ensuring the consideration of these restrictions are design rules. However, many aspects of design relevant knowledge are not restrictive and cannot be represented by design rules. The authors propose the application of design patterns, which represent problem- and solution-oriented knowledge. A pattern describes the abstract solution for a frequently occurring problem in a specific context. This approach was first introduced to architecture and then adapted to software engineering. Also first moves were made to use pattern languages in engineering design. The authors propose design patterns to represent design knowledge for microsystem technologies. As methodological means of support, a pattern lifecycle activity model and subordinate methods are presented.