The Engineering Design Process UHCL CENG and CSCI Senior Projects

Why Design? Engineers search for creative and efficient solutions to problems In doing so, they search for the best solution The best solution cannot be found without following a systematic method The same basic method should be effective in the solution of other types of problems

What does the best design provide? All required functions are performed A minimum of material is used A minimum cost is incurred The user is satisfied The deadline is met

Steps in a Design Process Identify the problem Identify specifications considering design constraints Gather preliminary ideas and alternative designs Select one design Simulate If design is correct, then implement prototype Else, redesign

Steps in a Design Process Test the prototype If it meets specifications, finished product Else, if minor errors then make corrections and implement prototype If errors are major, redesign and go through process again

Identifying the problem What is the task or activity that must be accomplished? What requirements must be met? What are the constraints?

Problem Analysis What measurements are required? Has the problem been solved before? Can any existing techniques be used to solve the problem? Can the problem be solved analytically or computationally? What are the possible solutions or alternatives available?

Refinement Does it work on paper or prototype? Is this the best solution? Does it work for all cases? Can it be made, manufactured or accomplished? How will the solution be communicated? Will it be safe?

Deciding on a Solution What are the strong points of a solution? What are the weak points of a solution? Accept and implement a solution or reject and repeat the process