Engineering Design - Identify a Problem Worksheet

Engineering Design - Identify a Problem Worksheet



Engineering Design – Identify a Problem

 

Name(s): _______________    _______________   _______________
       

Part I:  Brainstorm Problems

 

1.   Think about things that “bug” you - problems with a process or product.
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2.  Circle the three you like the BEST!

3.  Underline the choice that interests you the most!  This is your problem to solve!

4. Write a problem statement:

How might we help ___________________find a better way to                                                                                         

                                           
                                  (name of person you’re helping)

_________________ because/in order to ____________________?

(actionable need person has)                         (a surprising insight or takeaway)

 

  

Part II: Research Concepts Related to Phenomena

 

1. Research science phenomena related to your problem.   

Hint:        


Phenomena
- The "what" of science, the observable things we study to understand the "how" and "why".

Engineering involves designing solutions to problems that arise from phenomena and
using explanations of phenomena to design solutions.

 

2. Write down ONE phenomenon related to your problem that you wish to further explore. You may explore multiple phenomena if you choose (use a separate worksheet for each phenomenon).

 

3. List the concepts related to your chosen phenomenon.

Concepts (the science explaining the phenomenon)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Generate questions you have about how your concepts can be used to better frame the problem you are trying to solve.

Questions (include why & how)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

4. Conduct research to see what solutions already exist.  List them below.

 

Solution 1:________________________________________________

Solution 2:________________________________________________

Solution 3:________________________________________________

 

5.  After identifying solutions that already exist, look at your questions again. Modify one to make it slightly different than existing solutions OR use a question that has no solution!  This will be your problem to solve!


Part III. Brainstorm Innovative Solutions

 

Rules of Brainstorming

●There are no BAD ideas.

●Support others –YES!

●Wild ideas and new ways of thinking are encouraged!

●Build off the ideas of others!

●One idea at a time.

●Go for volume.

 

1.  Place your problem in the center of the Mind Map.

2.  Brainstorm solutions and write them in the outer circles. (Remember to consider what you learned from your research!)

3.  Choose the solution you like the best and that makes the most sense!

 

 

 

4.  List the criteria for success
and constraints –cost or affordability, reliability, material information (strength, weight, resistance to corrosion, color, surface texture, ease of manufacture or reproducibility), operating  environment (temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, caustic conditions),  ergonomics (human factors), health and safety, and general ease of use or operation.

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