Problem Formulation

• Generate problem statements that focus on the function to be achieved by any viable design solution

• Apply a number of techniques and strategies such as the statement-restatement technique, the source/cause approach, the revision method, present state-desired state (PS-DS) strategy, and Duncker diagrams

• Perform Kepner-Tregoe (KT) situation analysis to evaluate various aspects of a situation in terms of three criteria (timing, trend, and impact), thereby determining what is known, which tasks should be performed, and in what order these tasks should be completed

• Perform KT problem analysis to determine possible causes of a problem

Program Outcome 2: Design

2.2 (Design assessment) Students will be able to critically evaluate the impact of cost, features, and performance on the useful functionality of a project "product" from the perspective of a non-technical customer and will understand the importance of critically challenging his/her design and use assumptions to ensure exploration of alternative designs & features from the perspective of a final customer product.

Statement-Restatement Technique

Problem Statement: To optimize the performance of laundry and dryer machines.

Paraphrase: How can we optimize our washer and dryer machines to save resources?

180-Degrees: How can we wash clothes using a washing and dryer machine disregarding clothing material and resources spent.

Broaden the focus: How can we save resources while using household appliances?

Redirect the focus: How can we wash clothes without water and/or electricity?

Source: 11 Ways To Restate Problems to Get Better Solutions

The Revision Method Technique

Existing Products:

• Standard washing machines

  • Top Load Agitator

  • Front Load Washer

  • Top Load Impeller

• Standard drying machines

  • Gas Drying Machine

  • Vented Drying Machine

  • Condenser Drying Machine

  • Heat Pump Condenser

Flaws with existing products:

• Top Load Agitator Washing Machine

  • The agitator is tough on clothes in comparison to other machines

  • They use about three times the water and energy of a front load or high-efficiency model. They are not environmentally friendly in any way and will cost the user significantly more in electric and water bills.

  • Large single items like blankets or comforters do not fit very well

• Front Load Washer

  • Due to using very little water (especially in comparison to a Top Load Agitator), this washing machine struggles with dirty loads and loads with high amounts of odor.

  • Long cycle times

• Top Load Impeller

  • Takes a long time to wash clothes

  • Extremely loud (poor choice in most households)

  • Might be too gentle, resulting in not washing clothes very well

• Gas Drying Machine

  • Relatively poor for the environment

  • More expensive than electric counterparts

• Electric Drying Machine

  • Longer drying times, leading to higher costs over time

Duncker Diagram & Source/Cause Approach

Kepner-Tregoe (KT) Analysis