ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS

NEIU 19~NASA ENDEAVOUR PROGRAM

2005-2006

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

ENGINEERING V-CHART

"THE NEED" System Level Requirements

Sub-System Level

Requirements

Component Level Requirements

Fabrication and Assembly

Component Level Testing

Sub-System Integration and

Testing

System Integration and

Testing

DEFINE VERIFY

TIME

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• PROBLEM DESCRIPTION:– The need for bicycle transportation is

becoming increasingly important due to the sharp increases in the cost of fuel.

– Owners of bicycles are using these alternative forms of transportation for everyday transportation.

– Often owners are carrying large loads of books for school and work, groceries, and other personal items (i.e. ipods, laptops, etc.)

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Mission• Design a Bicycle Trailer to

meet identified needs and specified requirements

• Identify all major components and suggest more detailed design considerations (materials, size, etc.)

• Identify important/critical design components (Safety!)

• Specify your completed design costs, limits, features, etc.

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• OPEN REQUIREMENTS• Trailer must hitch to most bicycle frames in a simple

and secure fashion• Trailer should be able to safely accommodate one

or two small children and/or pets• Trailer should provide passengers with protection

from sun, wind, airborne debris, and other elements• Trailer passengers should be secured in positions• Trailer should maximize use of economical and light

weight materials• Trailer should be aesthetically pleasing

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Features to Consider– Seating Options– Conversion

Capabilities (can it be pushed by hand?)

– Assembly and Disassembly

– Storage – Luxury Design

Features (windows, plush interior)

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Structure

– Materials (Strength vs. Weight)

– Fabric(s)– Hitch (Fasteners)– Organization

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• SAFETY EQUIPMENT CONSIDERATIONS– Restraints (Seatbelts)– Limitations for Trailer Use

(Riding Conditions, Road Surfaces)

– Warning Labels Internally (Clear, Visible)

– Reflective Materials Externally (Visible)

– Safety Flags– Wheel Reflectors

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Performance Considerations– Will it tip during a abrupt turn at a 90O angle?– What is the operational speed limit?– Does the attachment system provide ease and

speed of use?– How do the materials withstand the elements?– In the case of an impact (accident), what safety

capabilities will be implemented?– What is the level of visibility (day/night)?– Does your design require helmet use?

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Warnings and Labels to Consider:

• Maximum weight capacity

• Connection Warnings (i.e. electrical systems)

• Helmet Use• Use of Restraints• Braking Warnings• Assembly Instructions• Speed Limitations• Highway DrivingWhat warning labels will

you include??

UNDERSTANDING THE ENGINEERING PROCESS

• Your team of engineers has been selected to design a bicycle trailer. Your project proposal should include the following components:– The specifications of your design

• Safety Features, Design Features, Materials

– The appearance of your completed trailer• Drawing, Painting, Computer Generated Design

Best of luck design teams!