Evidence of Work

Our class was assigned with the task of completely disassembling an object of our choosing to analyze how the product functions. We each brought in something complex with the tools required to take it apart. Then, we did sketches of each of the systems within the object and described how they were all connected in some way. We looked at how energy was transformed throughout the system and how different inputs would produce an output. 

My object was an old scientific calculator, which I took apart into three different systems. The main component was the breadboard on the inside where data would be transferred and read to produce a final calculation. I wrote down all of the numbers on the board and the location of diifferent resistors. I also looked at the plastic casing and the rubber button pad in my sketches. Below, I have provided the evidence of my work. 

Content

Conceptual Sketches

These are used by engineers to express functional connections among various parts, including the elements and their relationships. A sketch groups the elements and subsystems separately and describes how they fit together. This project was to make a conceptual sketch of our own products. 

Flow Charts 

Flow charts show the input of a device and how it produces an overall output including all of the reactions in between detailing the processes to get there. In our background research to this project we did a flow chart on a bicycle, as seen in the photo. 

Engineer

Engineers use creative design and analysis processes that incorporate energy, materials, motion, and information to serve human needs in innovative ways. Solving problems and improving the lives of people are a lot of what an engineer does. 

Reflection

I felt like this project went moderately well for me considering this was my first conceptual sketch ever. I stayed very focused during the time we had in class so that I could finish the different systems. Though at times I was not sure what to look for, I made sure to be conscientious and ask questions and try to understand the object as best that I could. My drawings ended up very clear and easy to read, which I was proud of by the end of the project. Also, I utilized my group to ask specific questions about the parts they were drawing which proved to be helpful as well. Our collaboration resulted in a better understanding for me. 

One way I could've improved my project is by adding more labels as to what each individual part does. This would've given the viewers a better understanding of how my product worked, and also how each part was connected. I struggled to find this piece of the project in the time that we had, so moving forward I will make sure to be conscious of the time frame and research more effectively. Therefore, I exhibited characteristics of a diligent worker during the time period for this assignment, however I could have managed my time a bit better in the things I was putting my energy towards. In the future, I will try to spend less time on the actual drawing and give myself more time to research the different components and materials of the product.