Using the Design Matrix A Brainstorming Method Used to Help Students Uncover Solutions to Engineering Problems

Best way to cut residential grass standing over 12” Step 1…create a precise problem statement

Step 2…insert design criteria in top row InexpensiveInexpensive ReliableReliable SafeSafe PracticalPractical AestheticsAesthetics LegalLegal MoralMoral Operating $Operating $ Best way to cut residential grass standing over 12”

Sample Constraint Terms Feasible Reliable Economical Aesthetic Legal Moral Safe Timely Functional Environment Friendly Ergonomics Practical Ease of Manufacture Standard Parts Ethical Efficient

Best way to cut residential grass standing over 12” Rotary Riding Mower Fire String Line Herbicide Fence Salt Fenced Herbivore Gas Push Mower Garden Hoe Step 3…Brainstorm ANY and ALL Ideas InexpensiveInexpensive ReliableReliable SafeSafe PracticalPractical AestheticsAesthetics LegalLegal MoralMoral Operating $Operating $

Best way to cut residential grass standing over 12” Step 4…Rate your matrix using the “Reasonable Man” theory Work Thru. Each Column ADD InexpensiveInexpensive ReliableReliable SafeSafe PracticalPractical AestheticsAesthetics LegalLegal MoralMoral Operating $Operating $ Rotary Riding Mower Fire String Line Herbicide Fence Salt Fenced Herbivore Gas Push Mower Garden Hoe

Other Scale Qualifiers Having a beneficial impact = + Having a detrimental impact = - Having a neutral impact = 0 Using the popular scale of 0-10 {Whatever the ranking value make sure the alternative rows can be added up}

InexpensiveInexpensive ReliableReliable SafeSafe PracticalPractical AestheticsAesthetics LegalLegal MoralMoral Operating $Operating $ Best Result From MATRIX #1 Reapply Matrix Cycle to Winner of First Attempt String Cutter??? String on Front of Mower Use Under Riding Mower String Cutter on Trailer String Cutter on “Outriggers” Steel Line Chain Mounted Head Robotic String Unit Electric Assist String Cutter Rework Redefined Terms