Engineering Design
Process
5 Steps to Proper Design!
What exactly is engineering?
The creative process of turning abstract
ideas into physical representations
(products or systems).
This creative process is engineering.
You do this instinctively.
Formalize the process.
Design Problems vs. Analysis
Problems
Design Problems Analysis Problems
Open ended Clear Answer
More than one Only one correct
solution answer (or set of
The solution answers).
possesses needed The solution is either
qualities. true or not true.
Vaguely Defined Specifically Defined
Can be frustrating
because schools
aren’t set up to
teach this way!
Design or Analysis Problem?
Suppose that you are asked to
determine the maximum height of a
snowball given an initial velocity and
release angle.
What kind of problem is this?
Analysis Problem!
The question being asked only has one
correct answer.
If the problem were restated to say
“Design a device to launch a 1 pound
snowball to a height of 160 ft” it would
become a design problem.
The Engineering Process
Five Steps
Define the Problem
Gather pertinent
information
Generate multiple
solutions
Analyze and select a
solution
Test and implement
the solution
Start all over again!
Define the Problem
Develop a problem statement.
The definition must be written down in
order to be valid.
Identify needs and problems
Really try to break the problem down!
Consider the following…
“Design a better mousetrap”
Why? What is lacking in existing mousetraps?
(Mice carry disease)
“Design a mousetrap that sprays the captured
mouse with a disinfectant”
Too specific because it limits the number of
possible designs.
“Design a mousetrap that allows for the sanitary
disposal of mice”
Much better because it gives a clear goal and
problem that needs to be solved but does not limit
potential designs.
Establish Criteria for Success
A list of things your solution needs to
have to be successful.
Most of the time this is given to you by
the instructor.
You may want to add your own criteria
for success.
Gather Pertinent Information
(Research)
Is the problem real and its statement accurate?
Is there really a need for a new solution or has the
problem already been solved?
What are the existing solutions to the problem?
What is wrong with the way the problem is currently
being solved?
What is right about the way the problem is currently being
solved?
What companies manufacture the existing solution to the
problem?
What are the economic factors governing the solution?
How much will people pay for a solution to the problem?
What other factors are important to the problem solution
(such as safety, aesthetics and environmental issues)?
Generate Multiple Solutions
(Brainstorm)
Creativity is key!
Brainstorm a list of solutions.
Quantity over quality
All ideas are written down.
This is difficult at first…
Pick ones that you like and sketch out a
basic design.
How to think creatively.
Research shows no link between
intelligence and creativity.
Creative people are creative because
they make a conscious effort to think and
act creatively.
You can improve your creativity by
choosing to develop these
characteristics in yourself:
Creative thinkers…
Curiosity and tolerance of the unknown. Creative people have a positive curiosity of
the unknown. They are not afraid of what they don't understand.
Openness to new experiences. Creative people have a healthy and positive attitude
toward new experiences.
Willingness to take risks. Creative people are not afraid to take risks and try new
experiences or ideas, knowing that they may be misunderstood and criticized by
others. They are self-confident and not afraid to fail.
Ability to observe details and see the "whole picture." Creative people notice and
observe details relating to the problem, but they also can step back and see the
bigger picture.
No fear of problems. Creative people are not afraid to tackle complex problems, and
they even search for problems to solve. They seek solutions to problems with their
own abilities and experience if possible.
Ability to concentrate and focus on the problem until it's solved. Creative people can
set goals and stick to them until they're reached. They focus on a problem and do not
give up until the problem is solved. They have persistence and tenacity.
Analyze and Select a Solution
Think critically about the solutions that
you have generated.
Consider their possible strengths and
weaknesses and how that will effect the
end product.
Write down those strengths and
weaknesses in a table for your designs.
Select a design to create.
Test and Implement the Solution
Start drawing your solution in SolidWorks.
SolidWorks should be seen as a tool to develop
your final design and make changes if needed.
Build your device and make final modifications.
Test your device.
Identify problems with your solution and start
the process all over again!
