What to Know About Verification and Validation in Engineering
The engineering design cycle moves via multiple stages from initial design to final production. During those stages, parts must be inspected to ensure they do their purpose. When a part is verified, when is it validated? Keep reading to refresh yourself on the difference between verification and validation.
Understanding the Verification Process
Suppose a client has given requirements for a machine part. After manufacturing, you must compare the finished piece with the requirements. Is it similar to the required dimensions? Is it made from the ideal materials? The verification process aims to compare the manufactured part to the original design specifications. There is no point in testing its functionality until the requirements have been met.
Moreover, verification is necessary during the initial design phase to verify individual elements of a design. It also happens again during the review process to confirm specifications, especially if there are altered designs. In addition, consistency checks during production help verify parts to avoid problems with operation or installation. Systems Strategies & Analysis (SSA, Inc.) offers our customers full systems engineering lifecycle support using MBSE to include verification and validation.
What is Validation?
The validation process refers to knowing that the part will perform as intended. This process involves testing it in the machinery it has been made for. These tests may confirm the part does what it’s been designed to do. They also check its performance’s consistency, known as “validation.”
Validation only happens once parts are produced. It helps to detect errors in production that may cause quality issues. It also helps uncover problems that could be more apparent in the initial design phase, meaning they are fixed before it reaches the marketplace.
Verification vs. Validation
The above aforementioned is a way to differentiate between verification and validation. The twin processes become essential as parts become complicated. Examples include performance or incompatibility problems. Overall, verification confirms if the part complements the requirements, and validation confirms whether the part is suitable for use.
If your company needs engineers to assist you with verification and validation, reach out to SSA at 240-813-4427.
Contact SSA, Inc. Today for Systems Engineering Consulting Services
If you have any questions regarding our systems engineering consulting services, contact Systems Strategies & Analysis today. From program/project management services to Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)/Model Based Engineering (MBE) training, our team has the skills and expertise to quickly design, build, integrate, and operate software-intensive, enterprise-wide systems. We provide every client with comprehensive solutions to satisfy their unique goals. Contact SSA, Inc. by calling our support team at (240)813-4427 or sending us a message via our website. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Pinterest for company news and updates.
