IED Unit 1: Design and Problem Solving

3D Modeling

Also known as solid modeling. The process of creating a solid model or three-dimensional object using a modeling and design application on a computer.

Additive Manufacturing

A manufacturing method used for rapid prototyping where three-dimensional objects are built by adding layer upon layer of material.

Additive Method

A solid modeling design method where an object is created by adding volume to a smaller object. A solid modeling technique where geometry is added to existing model geometry.

Baseline Data

Known values. This form of data acts as a basis of comparison for all experimental data in comparing knowns to unknowns.

Biomechanical Engineer

An engineer trained in mechanical engineering and biomedical science who generally focuses on designing medical products.

Box Plot

A box plot, or box-and-whisker plot, is a type of graph used to display patterns of univariate numeric data.

Brainstorm

A group technique for solving problems, generating ideas, stimulating creative thinking, etc., by unrestrained spontaneous participation in discussion.

Computer Scientists

Scientists who apply their knowledge of computation to creating solutions using a computer system.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

A process that uses a computer to assist in designing something, such as a part, circuit, or building.

Concept Sketch

A graphical representation of an idea that can quickly communicate design intent and details.

Decision Matrix

A tool used to compare design solutions against one another using specific criteria.

Degree of Freedom

A variable by which an object can move.

Design Process

A systematic problem-solving strategy, with criteria and constraints, used to develop many possible solutions to solve a problem or satisfy human needs and wants and to winnow (narrow) down the possible solutions to one final choice.

Designer

A person who designs any of a variety of things. This usually implies the task of creating drawings or in some ways uses visual cues to organize his or her work.

Discipline

A branch of knowledge, typically one studied in college. Disciplines of engineering include civil, industrial, mechanical, chemical, electrical, geotechnical, urban planning, computer, and many more.

Dot Plot

A method of visually displaying a distribution of data values where each data value is shown as a dot or mark above a number line. Also known as a line plot.

Engineer

A person who is trained in and uses technological and scientific knowledge to solve practical problems.

Engineering Mindset

A way of thinking that affects how someone interacts with a challenge, comes up with a solution to a problem, and innovates on current technologies or systems.

Gantt Chart

A time and activity bar chart that is used for planning, managing, and controlling major programs that have a distinct beginning and end.

Histogram

A graph of vertical bars representing the frequency distribution of a set of data.

Innovation

Improving an existing technological product, system, or method of doing something.

Invention

A new product, system, or process that has never existed before, created by study and experimentation.

Iterative

A process that repeats a series of steps over and over until the desired outcome is obtained.

Mean

A mean is an average of a set of numeric data values. It is calculated by taking the sum of individual values divided by the number of individuals.

Median

A measure of center in a set of numerical data. The median of a list of values is the value appearing at the center of a sorted version of the list, or the mean of the two central values if the list contains an even number of values.

Mode

The value that occurs most frequently in a given data set.

Model

An accurate representation of an object or phenomenon. Models can be visual, physical, mathematical, or computational, and are often used in the development of scientific theories or the engineering of artifacts.

Patent

A government authority or license conferring a right or title for a set period, especially the sole right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention.

Piling-On

In a brainstorm when a member's idea produces a similar idea or an enhanced idea.

Problem Statement

A clear and concise identification and description of the design problem or opportunity.

Problem-Solving

The process of understanding a problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and evaluating the plan in order to solve a problem or meet a need or want.

Project Manager

A person responsible for coordinating and motivating people and resources to advance a project toward meeting the project requirements.

Prototype

A working model used to test a design concept by making observations and necessary adjustments.

Range

A simple measure of variation in a set of random variables. It is the difference between the biggest and smallest random variable.

Research

The systematic study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Standard Deviation

The distance of a value in a population (or sample) from the mean value of the population (or sample).

Subtractive Method

A solid modeling design method where an object is created by subtracting volume from a larger object.

Subtractive Modeling

A solid modeling technique where geometry is subtracted from existing model geometry.