The Solution of Engineering Design Problems - Assignment Example

1. Apply a systemic approach to engineering design. Each specific task involved in the assigned project required a systematic approach. To reduce the work load, each member of the team was assigned a task. Before starting a project, responsibilities were divided equitably among the members. Despite the fact that a team leader was not chosen, the team coordination was smooth with each member taking a charge of a project of interest and adeptness. On my side, I took a leading role in project 2. Project 1 concerned building a model ship. After extensive deliberations and discussions, we set onto building the model ship. Consequently, we were issued with a block of foam as one of the materials to work on. The first step involved researching on ship hulls. To set out on building the ship, the group examined the strengths and weaknesses of each model. At the design workshops, the members took specific areas of the foam to work on. Before the group finalized the model, preliminary testing was conducted to perceive ways in which the design could be improved. The next step involved testing the final model. Further, analysis of the final report was discussed to explore on the possible errors made. Suggestions were then made on was to improve the model (Page number 4 in Ocean vessel Design Report). Project 2 involved building a model truss bridge. To meet the engineering standards, the group set out to research on different types of bridge trusses. Later, the group was engaged in a brainstorming session to decide on which shape would be effective and easy to work on. Consequently, a simply yet effective design was selected. The design was afterwards out on the testing phase using M.D. Solids software. The software application was used to stress the design using specified loads, as well as indicating where forced acted along each stress member. The analysis was essential in strengthening the model. Thereafter, a meeting was convened repeatedly to improve and finish the project ahead of the set out deadline. Project 3 involved building a circuit. Research was done, although this time round, it involved using the knowledge the group members gained during the introduction to circuits and current. Basic calculations were performed to check that desirable results had been attained. The group finished the proposed circuit within the allocated time, as systematic approach was strictly followed. As a matter of fact, I completed the outcome single-handedly as evident here. By following a systematic approach, it ensured that resources, time management and teamwork were applied as required. 2. Find organize and evaluate information on a range of topics related to problems in engineering design. In principle, each engineering task involves reading and interpretation of information or data. Additionally, the quality of information gathered, interpreted and evaluated determines the quality of the design. Equally, undertaking any project, it is essential that a degree of research has to be performed on that particular project. This means that it is crucial that an engineer should have researching, interpreting and organization skills. At the preliminary testing phase in Project 1, there was no specific data needed for interpretation, although data was acquired, interpreted and evaluated in the final testing results. The final results of the acceleration against time were collected using lab equipment. The result was the organized and evaluated carefully to determine where an error in the design and how to overcome it (Page 4 "Ocean Vessel Design"). Information gathered for Project 2 using the M.D Solids software included the forces acting in each truss member. Using this data, the group was able to strengthen the weak areas. There was also a need to search through various articles on the internet in a bid to gain clear-cut understanding of the truss shapes and designs. Each of the truss design available was also summarized. The strengths and weaknesses of each designed was also documented. 3. Identify and evaluate technical, environmental, social and economic factors impacting on the solution of engineering design problems. The primary objective of an engineer is to solve problems and not to create. For instance, while working on solutions to a problem, an engineer has the duty of care to ensure that no technical, environmental, economical or social issues are raised. These therefore imply that a survey has to be conducted on the proposed design solution, with reference to the underlying social, technical or economic implications of the project. Among the three projects, Project 2 – which concerned building a model bridge – had certain issued. This conclusion is arrived at since being a civil engineering project, naturally, environmental and social factors would be involved. In particular, the project concerned building a bridge truss for Mildura, a village in rural Victoria. This meant that the project needed a design solution that would be cost-effective, easy to make. In addition, it had to have limited to no negative implication to the environment. For this reason, the group reached a consensus that the idea of constructing a simple truss bridge was appropriate. In Project 3 – which involved circuit design --, the group was assigned the task of providing defense personnel an effective means of recharging hand-held devices. The group conceived the idea of using solar power, since it has no perceived environmental implication. In addition, it is a means of sustainable energy and the easiest method for the project. 4. Use computer aided design (CAD) software to develop and present design solutions. Drawings are critical for designing any engineering project. Indeed, before a decision to initiate a project, 3-dimensional drawings are usually created to show how the final design would look like. In addition, as much as writing and communication are essential for a project, CAD drawings are a necessary component of the design process since they offer more practical insight into the proposed model. On my case, despite the fact that I had trouble working with the software in the beginning, after the 3D drawings were introduced, I piqued interest in the CAD software. I have received good marks for my CAD skill and for my weekly tasks. Additionally, I have provided a number of my weekly drawings, which show proof of my adeptness in AutoCAD (See appendices section - Page 27-28). 5. Communicate effectively with others orally in writing and by means of engineering drawings. Project management is a critical component of engineering, as it concerns managing resources at hand and providing solutions to projects. As an engineer, having communication skills is also vital, as it involves an engineer to communicate ideas effectively. The group provided reports for each project undertaken that was the source of communication. The group provided reports for the three projects (See Appendix – pp35). Report writing required effective communication, with each successive report improved writing skills. Engineering drawings were provided for only two projects - Bridge Truss and Circuit Design. The remaining one did not require the drawings. Despite being time consuming, report writing helps to understand how engineering ideas can be effectively presented to the world. This outcome has successfully been completed as I have provided reports for each of the undertaken projects. 6. Demonstrate an ability to learn individually and collaboratively in a team environment. In my opinion, the key outcome expected from this subject involving working effectively within a team. This is consistent with the fact that generally, effective engineering project cannot performed single-handedly. The greater the magnificence of the project, the more expertise of a team is required. I was aware of this from the beginning and worked in coordination to ensure effective teamwork. In the first and the last project, I worked as a team member diligently to ensure that tasks were completed before the deadline. Being a team member, I learn that my presence was significant in sharing ideas as well as, communicating effectively and not merely to follow ideas. In Project 1, I took the leading role. Although I was naive at the beginning, I research on the designed to gain confidence in the area. I also organized meetings to examine the progress of the team. Although I was leading the group, I realized I made some mistakes in my tasks, as had been pointed out at one instance by one of the team members. I believe this was good for the team, as a leader has to be humble. This means that although I had to show my authority and proficiency in the task, I had to set a good example by allowing a room for scrutiny. I also made sure that each group member was well equipped for a task to ensure the project was finished in time. As a matter of fact, I constantly checked on each member’s project. By working as a team member and a team leader, I have successfully completed this outcome as well as gained much from it. 7. Us a personal reflective journal and demonstrate improvements in their effectiveness as learners. Keeping a reflective journal was essential in this subject. As indicated by the journal that has submitted, I had effectively maintained entries from the first week of university. Although at first I was not aware of its significance, after reading through the past weeks’ entries, I learnt that it was in order that I improve in areas where I had performed poorly previously. Despite the fact that I did not write as much as other in my journals, I made sure that I recorded each respective week’s significant events study-wise. This was indeed essential as it enabled me to monitor my areas of improvement. It also helped me to set personal goals and objectives, including the need to improve my communication skills within a certain time period (See Appendix pp29) 8. Respond to diverse learning situations in a socially responsible manner. An engineering team is often composed of people from different cultures, norms, traditions, national origins, perspective, and educational levels among other aspects. This means that an engineer has a social obligation towards each member of the group. In my opinion, an individual’s cultural and social upbringing will essentially determine that individual’s way of thinking. When a member puts down an idea that may generally be considered as inconsequential and which may be taken as an insult by that member if ignored in a socially irresponsible manner, it may cost the team. For instance, when the member opts to leave the team, a gap may be left which may not be filled. I have a firsthand experience of such a scenario. While working on Project 2, I put down a team member’s idea as I had reasons to believe it would cause delay to the project. Afterwards, I observed that the member had been offended by my action and therefore explained why we had to put down the idea for the moment, although if time allowed, the idea would be implemented. As a leader, I learnt that it was critical to be aware of the team’s social constituency to avoid making badly-informed decisions. Further, I learn that it was crucial to always explain myself handle each one gently and responsibly. In all, working in and with the team was an extraordinary experience. For instance, interaction and communication with individual from multicultural backgrounds enabled me to improve my interrelationship skills. I have therefore successfully completed this outcome. Conclusion In conclusion, three projects were undertaken. The first project involved building a model ship. The second involved building a model truss bridge, while the third one involved building a circuit. Several skills were learnt throughout the course of the working on the projects. First, successful completion of each of the three projects required using a systematic approach. Through a systematic approach such as researching, designing the projects and coordinating tasks, a project can be finished successfully with limited or no errors and in time. Further, it is critical to understand that team work is essential for any successful engineering project. An effective leader understands the team members from the perspective of their social, economic, cultural and educational differences. Lastly, communication skills are also crucial for effective management of the project. This means that communication skills enable the team members to coordinate efforts, share ideas and work coherently towards a common objective of ensuring the success of the project. Read More