Engineering Design

Engineering Concepts Engineers are problem solvers Solving problems for humanity Use math, science, tools & materials Some say, “Design without math and science is tinkering.” Is tinkering OK? Use the engineering design process

Engineering Concepts Communicating ideas Interpersonal skills Teamwork Group skills Dialog persuasiveness Attitude Work ethic

Engineering Concepts Coping with change Technological literacy Brainstorming abilities Appropriate technology How technology and engineering affect the environment

Engineering Design Process Design is the planned process of change To end up with an intentional result Minimize trade-offs and control risk

Steps of the Engineering Design Process 1. Identify the problem 2. Research the problem 3. Develop solutions 4. Select and express the best solution 5. Build a model or prototype 6. Evaluate, revise, and refine 7. Communicate the solution 8. Redesign if necessary

Engineering Design Process 1. Identify the problem This appears to be simple but taking the time to find the root problem is extremely important.

Engineering Design Process 2. Research The Problem Don’t reinvent the wheel Find out what research has already been done The internet is a great place to start

Engineering Design Process 3. Develop solutions Critical step - first ideas are rarely best Brainstorming should be used No solution should be ignored at this step The more ideas, the more probability of success

Engineering Design Process 4. Select the best solution The design proposal An evaluation process from the design brief could be used Document your decision Through a sketch or drawing Verbal expression Text Mathematics equation 3D modeling on CAD

Engineering Design Process 5. Build a model or prototype of the solution This may contain the most technological problems. Experiment with materials and techniques

Engineering Design Process 6. Evaluate, revise, and refine the solution Analyze the solution for effectiveness in solving the original problem. Run a performance test

Engineering Design Process 7. Communicate the solution Ideas need to be “sold” to the client Presentation must include prototypes, models, or other form. The designer must know the design and subject matter Upon approval, the idea can be manufactured

Engineering Design Process 8. Redesign if Necessary Go back to the stage that will allow for a new outcome that will solve the problem.

Technology How people modify the natural world to: Suit their own purposes Satisfy their perceived needs and wants If you took away all technology, you would be standing naked in a meadow or forest

Technological Literacy Understanding our world Ability to use, manage, assess and understand technology

Engineering Design Process vs. Technological Literacy Since Edison and the Wright Brothers, the engineering design process has shaped our world more than any other single process.

Engineering Design Process vs. Technological Literacy The better we understand this process, the better we understand our world. (technological literacy) This better prepares us to live and prosper Our democracy works better

Engineering Design Process vs. Technological Literacy Democracy only works with informed citizenry Citizenry cannot be informed and ignorant of technology at the same time

Engineering Design Process vs. Technological Literacy By understanding the engineering profession, we better understand the world We can also make an informed choice about engineering as a career