A Brief Introduction to the Engineering Design Process

What is the Engineering Design Process? § A series of steps followed by engineers to come up with a solution to a problem. § The process is important because it allows engineers to go back and improve upon their original idea.

Ask • • • What is the problem? What do you already know? What are the limits or controls of the task?

Imagine § What are some solutions to the problem? § Research § Brainstorm. § Choose a way to solve the problem.

Plan • Draw a diagram. • What supplies will you need? • Assign tasks/jobs. • Make a list of the steps you need to take.

Create § Follow your plan. § Collaborate with your team. § Manage your time and resources well. § Test your design.

Improve • Learn from your mistakes. • Make your design even better. • Test it again. • Re-design!

Why Do We Draw? § We draw to communicate our ideas. § What’s the point of having great ideas if you’re not able to share or convey them effectively with anyone else? § A rough sketch or drawing solidifies our ideas.

…Listen…

A Picture is Worth 1, 000 Words § Decide when words are the most effective communication tool. § Often in Engineering or Design processes pictures are more a more effective means of expressing an idea. § Effective communication is key in “real world” situations, drawing is another way that you can communicate your ideas. § Remember! Everyone has a different way of understanding.

Implement Your Skills