3.1.1 - The Engineering Design Process

What is the first step in the engineering design process?

• Solution creation

• Testing and analysis

• Problem definition

• Design improvement

Answer explanation

The first step in the engineering design process is problem definition. This step involves identifying and clearly articulating the problem that needs to be solved, which sets the foundation for all subsequent steps.

Match the following statements with their reasons:

• The process is linear and unchanging

• Engineers may need to revisit previous steps based on new information

• It is not applicable to other fields

• Engineers never revisit previous steps

• New data or challenges require reevaluation

• It always follows a strict sequence

• There is no need for adjustments

• It is only used for engineering projects

Match the following statements with their corresponding problem statements for student lockers.

• "The current design of student lockers does not support efficient use by students and maintenance by staff."

• "Student lockers are too colorful."

• "The vibrant colors of student lockers are distracting."

• "Student lockers are too small."

• "The cost of student lockers is beyond the allocated budget."

• "Student lockers fail to adequately meet the needs of students and custodial staff."

• "The limited size of student lockers restricts storage capacity."

• "Student lockers are too expensive."

What do criteria specify in the engineering design process?

• The limitations within which the design must operate

• The specific requirements that the solution must fulfill

• The budget for the project

• The time frame for the project

Answer explanation

In the engineering design process, criteria define the specific requirements that the solution must fulfill, ensuring the design meets necessary standards and functions effectively.

What is the primary goal of the idea generation stage in the engineering design process?

• To immediately evaluate solutions

• To brainstorm a multitude of possible solutions

• To finalize the best solution

• To create detailed drawings

Answer explanation

The primary goal of the idea generation stage is to brainstorm a multitude of possible solutions. This phase encourages creativity and exploration of various options before evaluating or finalizing any specific solution.

Which technique is commonly used during the idea generation phase to leverage diverse perspectives?

• Prototyping

• Testing

• Brainstorming

• Manufacturing

Answer explanation

Brainstorming is a technique used during the idea generation phase to gather diverse perspectives, encouraging creativity and collaboration among participants to generate a wide range of ideas.

What is the purpose of maintaining accurate records during idea generation?

• To finalize the design

• To capture every thought for later evaluation

• To create 3D models

• To conduct simulations

Answer explanation

Maintaining accurate records during idea generation is crucial to capture every thought for later evaluation. This allows for a comprehensive review of ideas, ensuring that valuable insights are not lost in the creative process.

During solution creation, what do engineers do with ideas that do not address the problem effectively?

• Implement them

• Discard them

• Document them

• Test them

Answer explanation

Engineers discard ideas that do not effectively address the problem, as implementing or testing them would waste resources. Documenting them may be useful, but the primary action is to discard ineffective solutions.

What is the purpose of testing and analysis in the engineering design process?

• To create sketches

• To assess the solution's effectiveness

• To brainstorm new ideas

• To finalize the documentation

Answer explanation

The purpose of testing and analysis in the engineering design process is to assess the solution's effectiveness, ensuring it meets the intended requirements and functions as expected.

What does the final solution or output stage involve in the engineering design process?

• Brainstorming new ideas

• Creating comprehensive documentation

• Conducting group discussions

• Discarding ineffective solutions

Answer explanation

The final solution stage in the engineering design process involves creating comprehensive documentation. This ensures that all aspects of the design are recorded, facilitating understanding, implementation, and future reference.