The Engineering Design Process
A Repeatable Problem-Solving Method
The basic cycle
A common engineering design process is: define the problem, research, brainstorm ideas, choose a solution, build a prototype, test it, analyze results, and improve the design.
Typical design process
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Step 1: Identify the need or problem
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Step 2: Gather information and set goals
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Step 3: Generate possible solutions
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Step 4: Choose the best option using criteria
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Step 5: Build and test a prototype
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Step 6: Improve based on evidence
Important mindset
Engineering is iterative. Most good designs are not created perfectly on the first try; they improve through testing and revision.
Criteria vs. constraints
Criteria are the goals a design should meet, such as being lightweight or easy to use. Constraints are the limits the design must obey, such as a maximum budget or a required size.
Criteria and constraints
Criteria
- What you want the design to do well
- Used to compare solutions
Constraints
- What the design must not exceed or violate
- Used to rule out impractical solutions
Which step usually comes after building a prototype?
After building, engineers test to see how well the prototype performs.
Correct answer: Testing
Which is a constraint?
A budget limit is a constraint.
Correct answer: Keep the cost under $10
What is the purpose of testing a prototype?
Testing reveals strengths and weaknesses.
Correct answer: To gather evidence about how well the design works and what needs improvement.
Give one example of a design criterion.
Criteria describe what a good solution should achieve.
Correct answer: Any reasonable goal such as strong, lightweight, cheap, safe, or easy to use.