Chapter 2
The Design and Problem-Solving
Process
Introduction
 Design
is the planned process of
change.
 Technology is all about design.
Design Process
 Design
is a broad term.
 Design describes the process of
developing solutions to problems.
 Non-Linear Process
 Design Loop
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
Design
Loop
Identify the Problem
 Ask
questions
 Find the root of the problem
 What type of problems is this?
 What is the purpose of this solution?
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
Design Brief
 Problem
Clarification
 Problem Specifications and Limitations
 Detail Intentions
 Ask more detailed questions
 Provides direction
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
3. Investigation
and Research
Design
Loop
Research and Investigation
 Information
Gathering
 What technological Systems will be
used?
 Structural or Mechanical systems used?
 Principles or concepts involved?
 Previously used or developed solutions.
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
Design
Loop
Generate Alternative Solutions
 Very
important step!
 Usually difficult
 More the better
 Brainstorming
 Ideation
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
5. Choosing a
Solution
Choose the Best Solution
 Seems
easy, but needs great attention
 Attributes listing
 Matrix
 Evaluation Process
 Optimization
 Document Reasons
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
6. Developmental
Work
5. Choosing a
Solution
Developmental Work
 Modeling,
Materials Testing
 Fastening Techniques
 Shape and Size Deliberation
 Preliminary Design Issues
 Technical Planning – Engineering
Drawings, Section Views, Blueprints,
Etc.
 Ideas sold to clients
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
7. Modeling and
Prototyping
6. Developmental
Work
5. Choosing a
Solution
Modeling and Prototyping
 Computer
Models
 Mathematical Models
 Appearance Models
 Functional Model
 Prototype – Working model that looks
like the final product – Possibly scaled
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
8. Testing and
Evaluating
7. Modeling and
Prototyping
6. Developmental
Work
5. Choosing a
Solution
Testing and Evaluating
 Does
the prototype solve the problem
 Actual testing
 Gain feedback
 Performance evaluation
9. Redesigning
and Improving
1. Identifying
problems and
opportunities.
2. Framing a
Design Brief
Design
Loop
3. Investigation
and Research
4. Generating
Alternative
Solutions
8. Testing and
Evaluating
7. Modeling and
Prototyping
6. Developmental
Work
5. Choosing a
Solution