Intro to engineering design
The word design is used throughout many disciplines, each with its own slightly different definition. Technical and non-technical people alike use the word in its generic form to identify something that is the product of a conscious human effort.
Design as a process is the cornerstone of all engineering professions. Professionals often use the phrase “the design process” when talking about a method by which problems are identified and solutions are generated. This sometimes suggests there is only one way to plan or problem-solve. In fact, there are a multitude of methods to design. Some are very vague, while others are quite detailed. But, they all start with a need, a problem, or a want, and follow through a series of steps or phases that result in the creation of something that serves as a solution to the need, problem, or want.
defining a problem
· brainstorming
· researching and generating ideas
· identifying criteria and specifying constraints
· exploring possibilities
· selecting an approach
· developing a design proposal
· making a model or prototype
· testing and evaluating the design using specifications
· refining the design
· creating or making it
· communicating processes and results
Design as a process is the cornerstone of all engineering professions. Professionals often use the phrase “the design process” when talking about a method by which problems are identified and solutions are generated. This sometimes suggests there is only one way to plan or problem-solve. In fact, there are a multitude of methods to design. Some are very vague, while others are quite detailed. But, they all start with a need, a problem, or a want, and follow through a series of steps or phases that result in the creation of something that serves as a solution to the need, problem, or want.
defining a problem
· brainstorming
· researching and generating ideas
· identifying criteria and specifying constraints
· exploring possibilities
· selecting an approach
· developing a design proposal
· making a model or prototype
· testing and evaluating the design using specifications
· refining the design
· creating or making it
· communicating processes and results
Apply engineering notebook standards and protocols when documenting their work during the school year.
· Identify and apply group brainstorming techniques and the rules associated with brainstorming.
· Research a product’s history, develop a PowerPoint presentation, list chronologically the major innovations to a product, and present findings to a group.
· Use online and published works to research aspects of design problems.
· Identify the design process steps used in given scenarios and be able to list the steps, if any are missing.
· Identify and apply group brainstorming techniques and the rules associated with brainstorming.
· Research a product’s history, develop a PowerPoint presentation, list chronologically the major innovations to a product, and present findings to a group.
· Use online and published works to research aspects of design problems.
· Identify the design process steps used in given scenarios and be able to list the steps, if any are missing.
VOCABULARY
Key Terms
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"We undertake research when we wish to explore an idea, probe an issue, solve a problem, or make an argument that compels us to turn to outside help.”
Research is the systematic study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.