Design and Problem Solving Text Introduction to Technology

Design and Problem Solving Text: Introduction to Technology Chapter 2

6 (8) Step Process 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Identify The Problem Research Develop Alternative Solutions Select the best solution Implement the solution Evaluate the solution Communicate Solution Redesign

1. Identify the Problem • • 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

2. Design Briefs • 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

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….

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

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

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.

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

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)

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 •

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

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