Engineering and designing innovative solutions to problems is at the heart of engineering as a discipline, but communicating it is an entirely different process altogether.
This project has three primary conceptual questions:
What is a cutting-edge technology that is in the process of being developed or has recently been released?
What is the past and prospective future of that technology?
How can you effectively communicate about that topic, including communicating your research process?
For DES 3170 - you need to also propose a design solution to solve a future problem
Part 1: Researching Future Challenges and the Role of Designers - Google Docs
Select a future challenge in various industries, such as:
Climate change and sustainability.
Rapid urbanization and overpopulation.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and automation.
Global inequality and access to resources.
Research the evolving role of designers in addressing these challenges.
Compare the role of designers today with future expectations.
Consider how global, ethical, and technological shifts might influence design priorities.
Part 2: Creating the Design Brief - Google Docs
Task 1: Write a design brief that describes a possible future problem to be solved. This is an overarching question that will need to be addressed in the future.
Examples:
"How might designers create sustainable urban living solutions for a city of 20 million people?"
"How can wearable technology be designed to support mental health in a hyper-digital future?"
"What solutions could address the ethical use of AI in public decision-making systems?"
Structure the design brief:
Define the problem.
Explain its societal, environmental, or technological context.
Identify constraints and goals for the solution.
Part 3 : Developing the Design Solution - Google Docs
Research and brainstorm potential solutions.
Use future-focused design thinking, including trends in:
Smart materials.
Renewable energy.
AI-driven design tools.
Create your potential solution in one of the following formats:
Model: Physical prototype (e.g., using 3D printing or recycled materials).
Drawings/Renderings: Hand-drawn sketches or CAD designs.
Animation: Short animated video showcasing the solution.
Support your design with research and analysis:
Reference how emerging technologies or techniques were integrated.
Provide evidence for the feasibility and relevance of your solution.
Part 4: Presentation
Prepare a presentation of your design solution:
Include visuals (e.g., renderings, models, animations).
Explain the problem, solution, and process using appropriate terminology.