Engineering Design Process Overview

A model that looks like the final solution, but does not actually function like it.

Models or prototypes are tested to see how well they meet the design requirements and to identify areas that need improvement.

The design is refined based on test results, focusing on functionality, cost, and safety.

The product is mass-produced and sold to the target market.

Engineers communicate their design process and results to share knowledge and inspire innovation.

A structured approach to solving problems by creating solutions that meet human needs and wants. It involves a series of steps that are repeated iteratively until a satisfactory solution is found.

A linear approach to conducting scientific investigations. It follows a series of steps, often involving a hypothesis that is tested through experiments.

The first step in the EDP, where the problem to be solved is clearly identified and defined. This involves understanding the specific human need or want that triggers the problem.

A group problem-solving technique where individuals freely contribute ideas without judgment. This allows for creative exploration and avoids limiting solutions early on.

A process that involves the creation of multiple solutions, often from different perspectives, to address the defined problem. This encourages diverse thinking and opens up new possibilities.

The process of testing and evaluating the generated ideas, often through building prototypes or conducting experiments. This step is crucial for refining the design and ensuring its effectiveness.

The iterative process of refining the chosen design based on feedback from testing and evaluation. This step ensures continuous improvement and optimization of the solution.

The final stage where the engineered solution is communicated to others through documentation, presentation, or other forms, ensuring that the design is understood and can be implemented.

This stage involves gathering information to understand a problem and potential solutions. It can include researching existing products, scientific principles, or mathematical concepts related to the problem.

These are the guidelines for what a design should be. For example, a chair might need to be comfortable, durable, and affordable.

These are the limitations or boundaries of a design. Like, a chair might have a maximum weight limit or a specific material it needs to be made from.

This involves assessing different ideas and solutions against the established criteria and constraints. This helps designers select the best approach.

Exploring other solutions ensures that the chosen solution is the best one. It can lead to simpler, more cost-effective, or even better designs.

This is when the designer chooses the solution they believe best meets the criteria and constraints based on the gathered information and analysis.

This is a written plan that outlines the design's details, including visuals and resources needed. It helps communicate the proposed solution to others.

This step involves creating a smaller version of the final design. It can be physical, mathematical, or graphical. Allows testing and changes before the creation of a full-scale version.