SoE Senior Design Thesis Research Assistance

The engineering design process is a structured, iterative way that engineers approach problem-solving and creating solutions. It’s not always strictly linear—engineers often move back and forth between steps—but it provides a useful framework for tackling challenges systematically. Here’s an overview of the main stages:

1. Identify the Problem
   • Define what needs to be solved.
   • Ask: What is the challenge? Who is affected? What does success look like?
2. Research and Gather Information
   • Learn from existing solutions, scientific principles, and user needs.
   • Collect data, review literature, and consult experts.
3. Define Requirements and Constraints
   • Establish the “must-haves” (requirements) and “limitations” (constraints).
   • Examples: budget, time, materials, safety, regulations.
4. Brainstorm and Develop Ideas
   • Generate many possible solutions without judgment.
   • Use creativity techniques (sketching, mind mapping, rapid prototyping).
5. Select the Best Solution
   • Evaluate options against requirements and constraints.
   • Use decision matrices or trade-off analyses.
6. Build a Prototype
   • Create a working model (physical or digital) to test the idea.
   • Prototypes allow for quick testing before committing to full-scale production.
7. Test and Evaluate
   • Run experiments to see how well the prototype meets the requirements.
   • Collect performance data, observe weaknesses, and solicit user feedback.
8. Iterate and Improve
   • Refine the design based on testing.
   • This cycle (design–test–improve) can happen many times.
9. Communicate the Solution
   • Share results with stakeholders through reports, presentations, or demonstrations.
   • Clear communication is essential for adoption and implementation.

The key is that the engineering design process is iterative—solutions are tested and refined repeatedly until they are safe, effective, and practical. It’s also collaborative, often requiring input from diverse teams and stakeholders.

The engineering design process isn’t just a set of steps—it’s how engineers turn ideas into real solutions. For you as an undergraduate, it’s valuable because it helps you:

• Solve problems systematically instead of guessing or jumping to quick fixes.
• Learn from failure by testing, refining, and improving designs.
• Connect classroom theory to real-world challenges using math, science, and creativity.
• Work effectively in teams, a skill you’ll need in nearly every engineering job.
• Think like a professional engineer, considering constraints like safety, cost, and sustainability.

In short, this process trains you to be both practical and innovative, preparing you for internships, research projects, and your future career.