University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Project Statement.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING What is a Project Statement? It begins with the need expressed by a sponsor (vague or clear, internal or external). It defines the problem to be solved. Once the project is completed, the sponsor will be satisfied with the result.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Stages of Building a Project Statement I.Contact key individuals in the sponsoring organization (or the internal division). II. Arrange for a site visit. III. Do preliminary background research IV. Ask questions, listen, and take good notes in your laboratory notebook.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Background Research WHAT do I need to find out? WHERE and HOW can I get the information? HOW reliable is the information? WHEN do I have enough information? HOW will the information be used?

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Five Elements of a Project Statement 1)Statement of Need 2)Preliminary Requirements 3)Basic Limitations 4)Other Data 5)Questions

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 1) Statement of Need A couple of paragraphs Discusses the perceived need Utilize NUMBERS to describe the needs Does NOT include a solution Allows for fresh/creative approaches

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 2) Preliminary Requirements Describes the requirements broadly Does not have to be very precise at this stage Does not require a detailed list (will come next when you do Project Specifications)

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 3) Basic Limitations Describes known constraints Notes applicable codes/restrictions Discusses undesirable features May include simple sketches

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 4) Other Data Includes relevant information that does not fit in other sections such as that about: equipment, facilities and/or policies of sponsoring organization

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 5) Questions Includes questions that have been raised in meetings/discussions but which cannot be answered until later in the design process.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Format for the Project Statement Cover Page (described later) Body: Project Statement with all the necessary elements (items: 1 - 5) clearly labeled. Additional Information: Identify key technical areas/skills used in the project.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Cover Page A.Course Number (ME272) and term B.Title of the Project (descriptive) C.Team members (with majors identified) D.Sponsoring Organization (contact information) E.UCONN & Sponsor Logos

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Body of Statement A. Introduction / Background B.Requirements: What is the project goal? C.Metrics / Specifications D.Verification Approach E.Schedule Should be typed and written in third person

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Specifications (defined) List the requirements that project must meet. Utilize numbers if they are available. There are different types of specifications, including those for hardware and software.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Specifications (explained) A key concept underlying the specifications is that any competent engineering team should be able to design a device that performs the function that is desired. Specifications determine WHAT is to be built, but DO NOT provide any information about how to build the device.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Specifications (warnings) In general, you should NOT specify any components. However, if modifying an existing device [hardware or software], describe the current device in as must detail as possible.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Technical Specifications Contains in a TABULAR form all of the facts & figures needed to undertake the design project.

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Specifications Format (example) Mechanical Parameters (sample) Button: Size5” x 5’’ (min.) Actuation Force0.001 N (max.) Weight:5000 lbs. (max.) Durability:Should survive 10-ft. drops. Electrical Parameters Battery Life6 months (continuous use) Display: Number of Characters30 (minimum) Size2’ min. height x 1.75’ min. width IlluminationVisible in strong sunlight

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Specifications Format (cont.) Environmental LocationBasement (6’ underground) Temp. Range-40 to +700 F Storage temp.-273 to 1000 F Moisture?, Corrosive liquids?, Vibrations? Software Execution time34.5 seconds (max.) Termination/Reset1 button InterruptsStandard ^C Memory4.5 MB PlatformWindows PC

University of Connecticut MECHANICAL ENGINEERING A Final warning: Be Specific!