exam Flashcards
What are the basic steps in the engineering design process?
- Recognizing the need for a product or service
- Defining and understanding the need
- Doing preliminary research and preparation
- Conceptualizing ideas for possible solutions
- Synthesizing the findings
- Evaluating good ideas in more detail
- Optimizing solutions
- Presenting the final solution
These steps are universally applicable regardless of the engineer’s background.
What is the first step in the engineering design process?
Recognizing the need for a product or service
Why is understanding the problem crucial in the design process?
It is the most important step to ensure relevant solutions are developed.
What is involved in the research and preparation stage of the design process?
Collecting useful information and checking if a similar product already exists.
During which design phase do engineers generate ideas or concepts?
Conceptualization
What is the purpose of evaluating alternatives in the design process?
To rate how well each option meets design criteria.
What does synthesis involve in the design process?
Considering details, performing calculations, and narrowing down materials.
What does optimization mean in engineering design?
Minimization or maximization of design features.
What is the final step of the design process?
Presenting the final solution to the client.
Define sustainability in design.
Design and development that meets current needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs.
What is life-cycle analysis?
An assessment of a product’s impact from raw materials to disposal.
List the four steps generally involved in life-cycle analysis.
- Purpose or goal definition
- Inventory analysis
- Impact assessment
- Improvement
Why are economic factors important in engineering design?
They determine if a product can be manufactured and sold profitably.
What factors do engineers consider when selecting materials?
Durability, cost, availability, and suitability for the application.
What is a patent?
The right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention.
