Perusall Definitions Flashcards
engineering design process
a systematic, iterative approach to solving problems and creating functional products or systems. It involves defining a problem, brainstorming ideas, designing, testing, and refining solutions to meet specific needs or constraints effectively
iterative
repeating a process multiple times, with each repetition building on the previous one to improve or refine the outcome. In engineering, it involves cycles of testing, feedback, and adjustments until the desired solution or result is achieved
problem statement
serves to define the problem and guide the process. It identifies the gap, need, goals, and constraints, providing a foundation for the design process.
Current State: What exists now (e.g., “The bridge struggles to support current traffic and has structural wear.”)
Desired State (Want): What is hoped for (e.g., “A durable, efficient bridge to handle future demands.”)
Gap: What’s preventing achievement (e.g., “Outdated design and material limits necessitate redesign or replacement.”)
project requirements
The specific criteria, functions, objectives, and constraints that the solution must meet.
conceptual design alternatives
Different potential solutions or ideas proposed during the early stages of design. These are broad, high-level concepts meant to explore various approaches before selecting the best one to develop further.
design space
The range of possible solutions or approaches within which the design process operates, defined by the problem, constraints, and requirements. It encompasses all feasible options for solving the problem.
functions
The intended purpose or role of a product, system, or component, describing what it is supposed to do. Described using verbs
objectives
The desired outcomes or goals of a design, often expressed in measurable terms (e.g., maximizing efficiency, minimizing cost, or improving safety)
constraints
The limitations or restrictions that must be adhered to in the design process, such as physical, financial, environmental, or regulatory factors (e.g., a maximum budget or a specific material requirement). – use words “must” or “shall”
client statement
A description of the problem or need provided by the client, often written in their own words. It serves as the starting point for defining the project goals and requirements.
means
The tools, methods, or processes used to achieve a desired outcome in the design process. For example, specific materials, technologies, or techniques employed to address a problem
scoping
The process of defining the boundaries and focus of a project. It involves determining the problem’s scale, identifying key requirements, and prioritizing tasks to ensure the project stays manageable and aligned with goals
design brief
A document summarizing the design project’s objectives, scope, constraints, and key requirements. It provides a clear framework for guiding the design process and ensuring alignment between the client and the design team
solution driven
An approach where the focus is on quickly generating or implementing specific solutions, sometimes without fully exploring the broader problem or alternative possibilities
solution independent
An approach that focuses on thoroughly understanding the problem and its requirements before committing to specific solutions. It encourages exploring various options without being biased toward any particular outcome initially
stakeholder
Any person, group, or organization that has an interest in or is affected by the outcome of a project. In APS111, this does not include the user or client.
stakeholder interest
The specific concerns, needs, or objectives of a stakeholder regarding a project.
scope creep
The gradual expansion of a project’s scope beyond its original objectives, often due to unplanned additions, changes, or unclear requirements. It can lead to increased costs, delays, and challenges in meeting the original goals.
users
The individuals or groups who will directly interact with or benefit from the product, system, or solution being designed
operators
The people responsible for running, controlling, or maintaining a system, device, or facility
benchmarking
The process of comparing a product, system, or performance metric against established standards, industry best practices, or competitors to identify areas for improvement and set goals
client
The individual, organization, or entity that commissions the project or design work. The client defines the needs and requirements and typically provides funding or resources for the project.
service environment
The actual physical or operational conditions in which a product, system, or structure will function. This includes factors like temperature, humidity, vibration, load, chemical exposure, or other external influences that impact its performance and durability.
virtual environment
A computer-generated simulation or digital space used for testing, modeling, or visualizing a design without needing a physical prototype
blue sky thinking
A creative brainstorming approach where there are no limits, restrictions, or preconceptions. The goal is to generate innovative, out-of-the-box ideas without immediately considering feasibility or constraints
bias
Any inclination or tendency that can skew decision-making or analysis in a particular direction. In engineering, bias can manifest in data interpretation, design choices, or problem-solving due to personal preferences, assumptions, or external influences
purpose
The primary goal or intended function of a product, system, or project. It defines what the design is meant to achieve or the problem it is solving
metrics
Quantifiable measures used to evaluate the performance, quality, or success of a design or process. For example, efficiency, strength, durability, or cost can all be metrics in an engineering project
