1. Design and Problem Solving
Text: Introduction to Technology
Chapter 2

2. 6 (8) Step Process Identify The Problem Research
Develop Alternative Solutions
Select the best solution
Implement the solution
Evaluate the solution
Communicate Solution
Redesign

3. 1. Identify the Problem Describe the problem Clearly.
Some needs (problems) are easy to understand
Other needs (problems) are more complex to understand
Some needs (problems) affect many people
Some needs (problems) are unique to one person
Describe the problem Clearly.
Simple statement that states in very general terms, the problem. Then….
Complete A Design Brief

4. 2. Design Briefs What are my goals and why? What is my target market?
A design brief is something that is vital to any design project as it will provide the designer(s) with all the information needed to exceed your expectations.
What are my goals and why?
What is my target market?
What are the specifications (constrains)?
What is your budget,
What are the available materials
What is your time frame

5. 2. Gather Information: Research
A good understanding of the need (problem)
Look for information that will help you design a solution
Talk to people
Library
Stores
Museums
Internet
Others….

6. 3. Develop Alternative Solutions
Mock ups
Sketching
More then one possible solution
Brainstorming
Basic
Complex
Creative
Extreme

7. 4. Selecting Best Solutions
Look at all possible solutions
Narrow the list to possible solutions
Does it meet the Design Brief
Modeling can help
Prototype can help

8. 5. Implement the Solution
Build a model or prototype
Consider the following
Aesthetics
Function
Durability
Cost
Ergonomics
Make sure you build according to the drawing, materials and limitations (constraints)for the problem.

9. 6. Test & Evaluate the Solution
Test product and gather data
Does it work properly?
Does it satisfy the needs of the Consumer?
What would make it better

10. STEP 7 Communicate the Solution(s)
Make an engineering presentation that includes a discussion of how the solution(s) best meet(s) the need of the initial problem, opportunity, or need
Discuss social impact and tradeoffs of the solution(s)

11. STEP 8 Redesign Generally we do not perform this step in this class.
Overhaul the solution(s) based on information gathered during the tests and presentation

12. Car door handle
Constraints:
Need to be able to open a door with the touch of a finger
Sneaker
Need to be able to slip on sneaker and tighten the sneaker with out laces or Velcro.
Computer mouse
Need to be able to use the mouse with out an attachment to the computer.
Computer keyboard
Need to be able to use the keyboard with out an attachment to the computer.
Play station controller
Constraint:
Need to be able to use the controller with out joystick or four way direction pad.
Skate board
Need to be able to ride the board on dirt and pavement.
Ipod
Need to be able to listen to music with out head phones.
T.V. Controller
Need to be able to change the channel with out numbered buttons or up and down controls.
Digital Clock
Need to be able to see the read out at all angles of sight.
Analog Clock
Need to be able to adjust the clock with out touching the hands of the clock.
Light switch
Need to be able to turn on and off the light with out touching a switch.
Water bottle
Need to be able to drink from a straw with the lid closed

13. Problem solving activity
Select one of the following everyday products
Using the 6 steps of problem solving, improve or re-invent the product with in the give constraints