Beyond the design perspective of Gero's FBS framework

Abstract

Among the various model based theories, the Gero's FBS framework is acknowledged as a well-grounded, effective and tested reference for describing both analysis and synthesis design tasks. Despite its design-centric nature, the FBS model can provide a valid support also to represent processes and tasks beyond its original scope. The specific interest of the authors is to extend the FBS application to model also uses and misuses of objects, interpretations of the users, needs and requirements. In fact, as partially addressed also in literature, some issues arise when the classical FBS framework is adopted to model particular aspects such as the user's role, values and needs, as well as to produce an explicit representation of failures and redundant functions. The full paper presents an extended classification of aspects, beyond the design perspective, which currently cannot be represented by the FBS model and some directions for its possible extension. Several examples clarify the scope and the characteristics of the proposed model.