The Engineering Design Process

The Engineering Design Process is a cyclical series of steps used by engineers when solving problems.

Step 1: Define the problem- what are you trying to solve or improve, and what is your goal?

Our goal is to make a moving device that is sturdy and can move without a force acting on it.

Step 2: Research the problem. What is the problem, and what have others done? What are the constraints/criteria?

    We researched the problem, and others have built models or vehicles using these kinds of parts. Some designs have additional features and details such as catapults. The criteria are that the device moves on its own. Our material constraints are four wheels and limited parts for building the frame. For our time constraints, we have 10 minutes of planning time and 10 minutes of building time.

Step 3: Brainstorm possible solutions and ideas.

    We could make a very simple four-wheeled vehicle for the most stability and a good weight distribution. Ideally, it can also carry objects slightly smaller than the frame boundary.

Step 4: Choose the best solution, draw a diagram and make a list of the materials that will be used.

We chose the four-wheeled vehicle solution.

We will use: the four wheels, at least four rods, four small pieces to secure the wheels to the rods, and at least four connecting pieces to secure the rods.

Step 5: Build the model/prototype containing the most essential design features. Follow your plan to create the prototype.

We built the model according to the diagram.

Step 6: Test your solution.

We tested the model.

Step 7: Communicate your solution and discuss what works, as well as what would work better.

Our model successfully moves on its wheels. We decided to improve the model by adding short horizontal rods in parallel to the width of the model to carry weight. We also tried to make the model more 3D by attaching rods to the green connecting pieces.

Step 8: Redesign as needed and test.

This is our final model- we added the parallel rods but did not add any attachments to the connecting pieces. We did not find those pieces essential to the function of the model.

From using the engineering design process, I learned the importance of planning and researching before jumping to create a prototype. This is important because it improves our efficiency and helps us to avoid mistakes.