Many engineers utilize a structured design approach to offer solutions to the demands of customers. The process helps to add the structure of a project and encourages innovative thinking. The raw, objective data collected during the process can be used to reduce the possibility of bias and improve decision making. The engineering process also instructs that setbacks and errors can be valuable sources of information for future projects.
The first step in the engineering design process is problem definition. Engineers need to be clear on the purpose of their product and the reasons for its existence. This is essential for the rest of the engineering process.
After the problem is defined It is crucial to gather as much information as you can regarding the solution. This can be accomplished through conducting research, asking questions that are important and brainstorming ideas. This is where engineering creativity really shines and where the most innovative solutions come about.
Engineers need to consider possible solutions, evaluate the pros and cons of each, and choose the best. The solution should also be able meet the project’s requirements (e.g. costs, materials, time and space).
It is beneficial to build a prototype after selecting the most effective solution. Then, tests can be conducted to see if the product can do what it’s supposed to do. In identifying any flaws in the early stages, it reduces overall project development time and helps save money in fixing problems later on.