Engineering Design Process

1.) Define The Problem

Problems exist everywhere, and they vary in their degree of complexity and importance. An acceptable problem is one for which there is no known solution, or one for which there is a solution that can be significantly improved upon. It must be valid (that is, not a problem because you say so, but because other credible sources agree that it is a problem) and justifiable (i.e., the effort to solve the problem is warranted based on need and cost).

• Who says it is a problem?

• Are there prior solutions to the problem?

• Is the problem worth solving?

• What are the specific criteria & constraints to solve the problem?

Criteria are the requirements that a design must meet.

Constraints are limits that restrict the design.

2.) Generate Concepts

Once you have generated multiple possible solutions, you need to narrow your efforts to one (or a few) solution paths. It is often difficult to truly conclude this step of the process, because you could research and brainstorm solution paths indefinitely. At any point in the process, it may also be necessary to adjust the problem statement or start over with a new problem statement.

For example, if it appears that the problem may not be solvable at all with existing technology, you may return to redefine the problem. 

• Research the problem

• Brainstorm possible solutions

• Consider any additional design goals

• Select and justify the BEST approach

If the necessary technology to develop the solution does not exist, scientific research may be required to pursue a solution.

3.) Develop Solution

Steps 3, 4, and 5 typically overlap. Understand the iterative nature of the design process. The steps can and should be repeated to reach an optimal solution. 

• Create a detailed design solution

• Create concept and detailed sketches of the solution

• Create CAD model of the solution

• Justify the solution path 

If a solution is found invalid or cannot be justified, the designer must return to a previous step in the design process.

4.) Construct and Test

Your group should consider how you will test your final prototype in the design phase. The design will evolve over the prototyping phase. 

• Construct a testable prototype

• Plan prototype testing to ensure performance, usability, and durability

• Test the prototype

• Collect and analyze test data

If a testable prototype cannot be built or test data analysis indicates a flawed design, the designer must return to a previous step of the design process.

5.) Evaluate the Solution

Based on testing results, you may have to face some tough decisions about next steps. If the results of the tests indicate that the design does not meet the expectations, you may have to return to a previous step in the design process to rethink and revise the design. 

• Evaluate solution effectiveness

• Reflect on the design and recommend improvements

• Redesign the solution, if necessary

If the solution does not solve the problem, the designer must return to a previous step of the design process.

6.) Present the Solution

Presenting your findings is a great learning opportunity. An effective presentation of a design proposal is a critical step in the design process. It must clearly state the main points and precise details to enable a product to evolve from an idea to the marketplace. 

• Document the project

• Communicate the project using a project portfolio or presentation

Product improvement or redesign will require the designer to repeat the design process.