It is no secret that engineering design and development is a complex sequence of activities. As indicated in the term itself, a bridge stands between innovation and practicality. This is because what an engineer creates must serve a useful purpose or solve a problem. This guide provides an overview of the essential steps and fundamentals required in the design and development of an idea into a usable product. Everything begins with brainstorming and concept modeling, which is followed by prototyping, testing, and finally production. This results in an engineering design process that is cyclic or iterative while also methodological – balanced with rigor and some level of flexibility. This article details all the tools and practices an engineer, novice or expert, must know in order to think and apply strategies toward achieving project objectives and successful outcomes. Throughout this guide, we will not only cover the technical components, but also the roles of collaboration, project management, and decision making and how impactful they are during any stage of engineering design development.
What Is Engineering Design and How Does It Work?
An Engineering design definition refers to the iterative and methodical activity of developing a complex system based on applied creativity, scientific knowledge, and pre-existing technologies for a specific purpose. It’s often considered a multi-stage operation that includes defining a problem, researching it, conceptualizing a solution, building a prototype, testing it, and analyzing the results. Each stage is interdependent, allowing progression without halting revision and improvement cycles.
The way the design process functions is that a particular problem or requirement is addressed first. After that, relevant information is gathered and analyzed. Based on the information collected, designers come up with multiple concepts, assess them, and then choose one for prototyping and testing. Critical feedback helps engineers determine whether, from a performance perspective, they are able to implement the adjustments within the architectural, budgetary, and time limits. Following this path guarantees successful solutions to engineering projects.
Remember the Steps of the Engineering Design Process
The aim at this point is to have a specified problem that requires a solution and is framed clearly. In the problem-solving process, data collection is done to capture customer requirements, conduct a market study, and evaluate the environment. Capture and document cost constraints along with expected performance metrics and safety regulations which form the baseline parameters.
- In undertaking a broad comprehensive investigation, solutions already available in relation to accompanying technologies are studied to identify gaps. This involves collecting information from previous projects, performing feasibility studies, and reviewing scientific literature. Key data for this may include material properties, failure rates, and cost benefit ratios.
- Focus is put on creativity and feasibility while formulating concepts in brainstorming sessions. This stage includes drawing sketch designs, running basic simulations, and performing basic mathematical calculations. Estimates of production costs, energy expenditures, and advanced estimates of performance metrics guide decision making.
- Concepts that have passed the selection stage are then advanced to detailed designs, which include precise dimensions, material types, assembly parts, and intricate construction specifications. Critical aspects of the design are often key tested by building prototypes. Collected data could include tensile strength test results, thermal tolerance measurements, and stress distribution analysis.
- Prototypes are put through rigorous scenario-based testing to check whether the defined performance metrics are satisfactorily achieved. Efficiency rate, durability under stress, and output accuracy are noted. The design is changed according to feedback loops, and this collected data.
- Detailed documentation is drafted for execution or manufacture, and all aspects regarding the design and captions of the relevant pieces of text have been incorporated which comprise the final design. These include production tolerances, sequences of assembly, quality assurance standards, and user guide manuals.
This is a repetitive cycle where every step creates new improvements within the data being gathered and feeds into the final solution attaining peak performance with regard to safety and efficiency.
How Engineering Design Differs from Other Problem-Solving Methods
In comparison to other problem-solving methodologies, engineering design is distinct when it comes to its technical data analysis, having a framework and a sequence to follow, and an iterative approach focused on feedback. Unlike problem-solving, which can be whimsical or intuition-based, engineering design relies on scientific principles, mathematical modeling, and rigorous testing designed to provide tangible, functional outcomes. There is always a set criteria range which engineering design attempts to accomplish, including but not limited to: performance, cost, safety, sustainability, and many more, often aided by CAD (Computer Aided Design), simulations, and optimization algorithms. In addition, CAD as with other engineering design methods of multidisciplinary drawing aids, are suitable for collective use, which enables their application in solving complex problems and enhances the adaptability, scalability and practicality of the obtained solutions.
Real-World Applications of Engineering Design Principles
A spectrum of industries utilizes engineering design principles for the creation of cutting-edge and effective solutions. Below is a detailed list of key applications along with the relevant data.:
- Application of aerodynamic design to achieve improvements of fuel efficiency and a reduction in drag.
- Example Data Point: Modern commercial aircraft are estimated to achieve up to 20% better fuel efficiency over older models. This is the case with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner owing to its advanced aerodynamic and lightweight designs.
- Execution of structural optimization techniques to enable buildings and infrastructure to be developed in a manner that is safe and economical.
- Example Data Point: The Burj Khalifa in Dubai employs high-strength concrete, a triple-lobed footprint, and other advanced design features to counter strong wind forces and potential seismic activity.
- Application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for the reduction of vehicle air resistance and acceleration of other performance metrics.
- Example Data Point: Drag coefficient for energy-efficient electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model 3 is estimated to be 0.23, thus maximizing energy efficiency.
- Design and development of other sophisticated instruments such as medical prostheses, pacemakers, and advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Example Data Point: Modern prosthetic limbs are built from low-weight materials and incorporating robotics, thus improving functionality and mobility for users by approximately 90%.
- Design optimization of the layout of solar panels and placement of wind turbines for maximal energy harvest.
- Example Data Point: Onshore wind turbines are capable of reaching an efficiency of 45% in energy conversion because of advancements in the design of the blades and control systems.
- Creation of automated systems for higher precision and lower production time.
- Example Data Point: Advanced robotic assembly lines can achieve a throughput increase of up to 30 percent while retaining high standards of quality.
- Design of algorithms and architectures aimed at increased performance and scalability of the system.
Example Data Point: Uptime, as well as data processing, is available up to 99.9% in cloud-based systems across various industries.
How Does PLTW Engineering Curriculum Prepare Students for Success?
Engineering Design and Development as a Capstone PLTW Course
The PLTW Engineering Curriculum integrates real-life problem-solving and hands-on learning experiences through Engineering Design and Development so that students can succeed in today’s competitive industry. They work on collaborative projects where they apply Engineering principles to solve problems. This capstone course helps them develop innovation and critical thinking, as well as technical documentation skills that are crucial to employers and veritable institutions. Moreover, the curriculum trains students in the use of contemporary tools and technologies like 3D modeling and simulation software, preparing them for the future challenges in STEM fields.
Engineering Readiness Developed Through Hands-on Activities
The curriculum incorporates a set of practical projects that aim to develop advanced engineering fundamentals and techniques through practice. These are some of the major projects and their goals in summary form:
- Objective: Build structural engineering competencies by designing, simulating, and constructing a bridge model with 3D printing.
- Tools Used: CAD programs (Autodesk Fusion 360), 3D printers, and equipment for load testing.
- Outcomes: Learn the material’s properties, how to conduct a stress analysis, and the basic principles of structural integrity.
- Objective: Design and construct an autonomous robot that can perform tasks and navigate through obstacles.
- Tools Used: Microcontroller platforms (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), various sensors, and programming languages (C++, Python).
- Outcomes: Understand mechatronics with emphasis on sensor and automation design, as well as systems integration.
- Objective: Design and construct prototypes of functional renewable energy systems e.g. solar powered water pumps.
- Tools Used: Circuit design software, solar panels, and multimeters.
- Outcomes: Gain knowledge on sustainable solutions to energy, energy efficiency, and optimized systems.
- Objective: Design and build aerospace structures using computer simulations and evaluate aerodynamic performance.
- Tools Used: Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, finite element analysis (FEA), and wind tunnels.
- Outcomes: Knowledge in aerospace engineering and aerodynamics.
- Objective: Design an IoT-based prototype like a smart home or a monitoring device that employs advanced sensors.
Platforms utilized such as sensors alongside AWS IoT Core, the cloud developed infrastructure used implements in the sensors where placed.
Increase proficiency in analyzing real-time data across devices, networking, and comprehending the IoT architecture intricacies.
Each student is guaranteed a strong engineering preparation, ensuring that they have the necessary skills for post-secondary education by integrating all learning with practical standards framework on every multidisciplinary project. Today’s learners are supported to address the complex challenges of interdisciplinary STEM careers.
Engineering breadth can be explored Engineering Career Opportunities
In comparison to other professions engineering can be regarded as the most diverse. For example, the employment in architecture and engineering services is expected to grow by 6% from 2020-2030, which means additional 146,000 new jobs according to the US BLS. Some of the fastest growing are civil and software engineering and renewable energy engineering due to the increased infrastructure development, technological innovation, and global focus on sustainability.
Furthermore, the median yearly wage for the architecture and engineering professions in 2022 was $83,160 which is significantly higher than the median wage for all industries of $45,760. Other sectors such as petroleum engineering and computer hardware engineering claimed even higher median salaries, frequently surpassing $130,000 per year. This, in addition to the opportunity to engage in innovative work that greatly benefits society, underscores the value of pursuing a career in engineering.
What Are the Key Stages in Engineering Design and Development?
From Conceptual Design to Preliminary Design: Milestones of Progress
The engineering design and development process consists of several major milestones, each beginning with a sequential elaborative phase which contains the preliminary steps. In this specific phase, an engineer focuses on performing research alongside resolving the underlying problem whilst deep diving into brainstorming potential solutions. Fulfilling the prerequisites along with answering constraints guiding the project goal becomes established. After a concept is deemed feasible, the process enters the preliminary design phase which is marked with schematic sketching, modeling and developing prototypes contributing to the broader increasing scope of work. In parallel with construction, full-blown analysis and simulation for the technical aspects alongside feasibility and bound specification compliance takes place. These early steps are critical to minimizing risks and improving outcomes of later detailed outcomes of design and production phases.
How To Best Create Effective Prototypes And Test Design Requirements
Designing and testing working technologies or systems under difficult scenarios comes in stages with prototype iterations being one of the initial phases. Their purpose is to check if and how well goals of the project will be met during mass production. Until the project scope and budget are fully advanced, effective prototypes can be as crude as a 3D printed model serving as a low-fidelity representation or be as advanced as being fully operational systems.
Prototyping stands out as an error-reducing and design cycle improving tool. Per the Tech Research Group Report published in 2021, roughly 78% of product failures in a manufacturing context stems from inadequate testing in the prototype phase. In addition, companies that allocate at least 20% of their design budgets towards prototyping claim a 35% acceleration in the time-to-market for newer products.
The primary considerations in evaluating prototype outcomes include measurement accuracy, tolerances of stress, energy consumption, and durability of the materials used. For instance, a prototype undergoing material testing might be subjected to tensile strength test, in which material fail forces are applied in different directions to quantify it’s limit. In the same fashion, stress analysis simulations offer comprehensive evaluation on weaknesses a component might face during service under different conditions. This data enables engineers to tailor designs to not only meet technical requirements but also to fulfill user needs.
Application of Engineering Principles to Practical Hands-On Work
In practical projects, the integration of engineering standards begins with the testing and analysis of the materials, where numerous critical data points are gathered. A description of the major parameters and their importance follows.
It is the limit measurement of the maximum stress that a material can withstand while being stretched or pulled before it breaks.
Units: Megapascals (MPa) or Pascals (Pa).
Example Application: To ensure that materials will be useful in construction or manufacturing.
It represents the level of stress a material begins to deform plastically.
Example Application: Aids in determining the safety limits of the structures of components.
It is the limit value of stretching a material can reach before failure expressed as a percentage of its original length.
Example Application: Used in determining material ductility in cases where flexibility is required.
It is a measurement of the degree to which a material can resist deformation, scratching or penetration.
Methodologies: Mohs scale, Brinell, Vickers, and Rockwell hardness tests.
Example Application: Important for selecting materials that will be subjected to wear.
It is a measure of the energy a material is capable of absorbing without breaking.
Units: Joules (J).
Example Application: Makes certain that there is resilience in industries such as automotive and aerospace.
Identifies the lowest level of stress a given material can take for an infinite modified Goodman cycles without failing.
Example Application: Concerned very much with rotating parts such as gears and shafts.
The speed at which heat can be conducted through a material.
Example Application: Very important factor and great deal of concern for thermal management systems.
Determines the capacity of a material to withstand the deterioration due to the influence of the environment be it moisture, or some penetrative fluid or some chemical agent.
Methodologies: Testing and Immersion Testing.
Example Application: Important in marine structures and chemical processing equipment.
These parameters can then be tested and designed on an engineered material for a specific purpose, ensuring optimum performance and safety by meeting the required criteria.
How Can You Master Engineering Design Software Tools?
Essential Design Software for Mechanical Design Projects
When attempting to master any engineering design software tools, extreme care must be taken towards systems that are fully integrated within the industry and are frequently updated to cater to the changing needs of engineering. This includes:
SolidWorks: This software comes with excellent 3D modeling features which makes it very useful for mechanical design, simulations and drafting. Permitted resources are online courses and tutorials, as well as certifications conferred by Dassault Systèmes.
AutoCAD: It is multi-faceted and employs the use of both 2D and 3D designs, making it very useful in Advanced Mechanical Drawing. Users can take advantage of training sessions, forums, and other available resources through Autodesk.
ANSYS: It is one of the best-known products for higher order simulation work such as structural and thermal analysis as well as fluid flow dynamics. It is best mastered with some practice and training in finite element analysis (FEA).
PTC Creo: One of the main software’s focus is on parametric design, but it is also good at providing resources for product life cycle management (PLM). Gaining expertise can be attained through online learning sources as well as the vast knowledge base provided by PTC.
MATLAB: It is widely used for mathematical modeling, control systems, data analysis and it is one of the most useful software in solving complicated engineering problems.
To effectively learn them, one must go through the software’s official documentation, participate in user forums or communities, and incorporate its use into projects. Maintenance of long-term proficiency requires continual practice as well as keeping up with the software’s new versions and features.
Solutions in Technology for Circuit Design and Product Design
The development and operation of various contemporary electronic devices hinge on the principle of circuit design. It encompasses the development of schematics of electrical circuits that allow devices to accomplish tasks in a dependable and efficient manner. Precise circuit design assures best performance outcomes, efficient energy usage, and low error rates. Employing modern simulation technologies and contemporary design practices enables engineers to test and improve circuits before manufacturing them, thereby improving quality and reducing costs.
What Real-World Problems Can Be Solved Through Engineering Design?
Aerospace Engineering Problems and Solutions
We can solve many problems using engineering design. For example, in the aerospace sector, there is a demand for improving fuel efficiency and adding more eco-friendly features to crafts. T1 proposes that the use of advanced materials such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) significantly reduces body weight of aircrafts then it follows that there is fuel cost savings. It has been established that every 1 kilogram of weight reduction from a narrow bodied aircraft equals 3150 liters of fuel saved in a year.
Aerodynamic refinements of a craft such as winglets implementation also mark measurable improvements in efficiency. As per IATA research, modern freestanding winglets are capable of reducing fuel burn in long haul flights by 4%. These changes further propel the efforts made toward engineering design for efficient systems that aids in economic savings alongside environmental targets.
Solving Engineering Problems in Our Daily Life Activities
Engineering problems are backed up with tangible evidence through data and results, as demonstrated through engineering applications in solving problems in day-to-day life. The examples of the impacts are as follows:
The incorporation of winglets and other features of a plane decreases drag which aids in conserving fuel.
Key Data: Fuel burn on long-haul flights is reduced by almost 4% (IATA).
The advanced smart HVAC systems and insulation materials employed greatly help in conserving energy.
Key Data: Energy consumption in buildings utilizing energy efficient technologies can reduce energy use by up to 40%.
The elimination of fossil fuel dependency owing to the use of electric vehicles (EVs) leads to less greenhouse gas emission.
Key Data: EVs are estimated to reduce emissions by 50% throughout their lifetime lifespan when compared to Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles.
Water consumption is maximized and so is the efficiency thanks to smart irrigation systems and low-flow faucets.
Key Data: Up to 30% of water waste is reduced with the use of these systems, aiding in the preservation of important resources.
The use of wind turbines and solar panels helps provide non-polluting sources of energy that aid in reducing the dependence on non-renewable sources.
Key Data: Over the operational lifespan of solar photovoltaic systems, the expense associated with electricity is greatly reduced by 70%.
As the counter examples given above aid the society with engineering solutions, these examples help provide evidence on how engineering aids through innovations while considering environmental sustainability.
How the Capstone of PLTW relates to community concerns
The PLTW (Project Lead The Way) Capstone motivates new approaches to Chimney Sweep themed problems addressed in various other communities. The program helps students to solve real world problems which builds their skills in research, collaboration, and engineering design. For example, teams often work on projects such as: designing sustainable water filtration systems, developing renewable energy solutions which are low-cost, or creating aids for disabled individuals. These projects take into account not only their technical and logistical Venn-diagram feasibility, but also consider the local requirements and stakeholder input, ensuring relevant impact. The mix of innovative learning and practical application empowers participants to make meaningful and sustainable advancements to their communities.
How to Succeed in an Engineering Design and Development Course?
Critical Skills for Accomplishment in Engineering Design and Development
In engineering education, analytical reasoning is among the top skill set in value. Also, it helps in placing the identification of a problem, evaluating available options, and implementing viable solutions. As noted in one of the successful graduates from the Journal of Engineering Education, ‘87 percent of successful engineering projects depended on a problem-solving oriented approach’ proving the adage ‘old is gold’ for strategy in design and development courses.
This area of focus illustrates that there is limited understanding of other important areas in core engineering, like mechanics, material systems, and systems engineering. For example, participating in a survey conducted by the National Society of Professional Engineers, employers showed that a whooping ‘92 percent of hiring managers said applicants with CAD Computer Aided Design skills stand a better chance’.
Completing course work in Engineering Courses Integrated with design and development. Every student is bound to do a group project which takes collective effort, good interpersonal skills and flawless communication in order to be successful. It has been proven that ‘25 percent more homogenous groups and skill diverse groups to complete project activities’ as more projects are accomplished with higher precision.
In the world of building and engineering, technology changes at a rapid pace. Innovations and new devices are being manufactured every day. A professional report conducted by Deloitte in 2023 states that 78% of engineering professionals believe innovation plays a significant role in tackling construction issues.
When managing a particular project within an organization, accomplishing a project within the particular deadline, budgetary allocations, and generally desired results is the key to effective project management. According to research conducted, having structured management practices increases chances of achieving project goals by more than 60%.
Through these competencies, students will not only improve their performance in engineering design and development coursework but also construct a solid foundation for their future career prospects in the engineering workforce.
Assembling an outstanding EDD portfolio for students applying to colleges
When developing an Engineering Design and Development EDD portfolio aimed at college application, it is advised that a student showcase detailed processes, skills, and accomplishments to help the reader envision the structure as well as the data being showcased. Combating EDD, EDD offers an algorithm listed below to follow to help with defining what each student should emphasize on:
Make sure that the problem that your project addresses is well defined.
Set and define measurable objectives and the scope of work that you are undertaking.
Summarize and highlight all key findings from preliminary research with credible sources included.
Gain a great deal from interviews, surveys and case studies undertaken and highlight them.
Detailed sketches include CAD models, prototypes, and everything else that must be provided for your solutions.
Provide evidence for instructional design processes from documentation and troubleshooting.
Present materials pertaining to the assembly processes and testing procedures.
Analyze performance metrics through the use of graphs, charts, or tables.
Emphasize efficiency, cost savings, or societal impact when quantifying your project’s outcomes.
Make use of data comparisons such as baseline and post-implementation results.
Detail lessons learned throughout the course of the project.
Provide narrative on how hurdles were crossed and what aspects could be improved upon after reflecting on the challenges faced.
Attach simulations of designs, videos capturing functionality, or images of the prototypes.
Comprehensive visuals must be accompanied with precise descriptions.
Elaborate on your actions and contributions in relation to team work.
Demonstrate as much through team interactions communication and leadership roles.
Incorporating all of this information in a single piece allows high school students to present themselves to admission panels as technically competent while communicating other non-technical strengths like problem-solving, critical thinking, and readiness to collaborate, which are essential traits for a given consideration on offered slots by college program admission boards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is PLTW Capstone and how does it relate to engineering concepts?
A: In Project Lead The Way’s (PLTW) engineering pathway, the PLTW Capstone is a culminating program where students participate in open-ended, multi-year engineering projects. This program employs various methods of engineering standards and develops engineering solutions. In teams, students perform research and development through designing, testing, and constructing a solution to a real-world authentic engineering challenge—experience that closely emulates actual engineering practice.
Q: How does problem solving factor into engineering design and development?
A: Problem solving is an essential component of engineering design and development. Systematic methods are used to resolve challenges by analyzing constraints and coming up with creative solutions. The steps of the engineering design process encompasses defining a problem, doing research, brainstorming ideas, choosing a solution, building a prototype, testing it, and refining it, which are all steps that demand accurate problem solving. This allows engineers to work on difficult problems facing the world today such as civil and electrical engineering problems, documenting their work in an engineering notebook along the way.
Q: What kinds of hands-on projects help students learn engineering principles?
A: In relation to aiding students to grasp advanced engineering concepts, effective hands-on projects taught include bridge designing and building to teach structural engineering, simple circuits for basic electrical engineering, sustainable energy solutions, robotics programming, and prototype design for fulfilling community needs. In particular, the PLTW courses in digital electronics and aerospace engineering offer students especially useful hands-on projects that integrate theory and practical application. These activities immerse students in the engineering design process and scientific methodologies used by real engineers, thereby bringing abstract concepts to reality.
Q: In what ways do students encounter the different types of engineering throughout an engineering program?
A: Students encounter the different types of engineering through a variety of practical exercises including, but not limited to, laboratory work, field trips to industrial facilities, work placements, and design competitions and collaborative projects using simulation software. Students get to experience these diverse practical disciplines like mechanical, civil, electrical engineering, etc. Through research and design activities informant of professional practice, they understand what engineers do and begin to appreciate how different engineering disciplines work together to address multifaceted problems.
Q: What are the most valuable opportunities and experiences in engineering for students?
A: An engineering student’s most valuable career opportunities include internships with engineering companies and cooperative education programs, research assistantships, participation in engineering competitions, mentorship programs, and capstone design projects. These opportunities help students learn much about various engineering fields, including applying theoretical concepts practically, interacting with professionals, and developing valuable networks. Moreover, participation in various professional bodies and attending conferences enables students appreciate the diversity in the field of engineering and helps them make informed decisions regarding their careers.
Q: Why is teamwork regarded as a necessity in engineering design and development?
A: It is easy to see that modern problems are multifaceted and require joints from different fields. Thus, teamwork becomes essential in engineering. Most engineering projects cut across different fields of engineering that require the diverse input of different professionals to arrive at holistic solutions. Teamwork makes knowledge sharing, workload distribution, creative solutions, and quality control through peer review possible. In the field of engineering, teams work on research and design projects simultaneously so that a myriad of criteria and standards are adequately met with needs. Students who learn to work in teams while still in school are more prepared for the work force because real life engineering work is predominantly team based.
Q: What are the learning benefits of open-ended engineering challenges for students?
A: Students learn open-ended engineering challenges by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to not give up. Unlike problems that need to be solved in a set way, open-ended problems require the students to form their own set boundaries and devise ways to solve engineering problems. These challenges are a closer indication to real world work. Long term group projects, such as the ones done in PLTW Capstone, teach students how to manage complex problems—an essential skill for future engineers dealing with ever-shifting requirements and justification of design decisions.
Q: What is the purpose of maintain an engineering notebook during the design process?
A: The engineering notebook is a form of documentation that comprises the entire design process from jotting down an idea to researching it, calculating, sketching, testing, and iterating. It is a practice in the professional world where an engineer maintains records of their thoughts, tracks work done, captures intellectual property, and documents processes that need to be presented in patent applications. For the students working at a hands on level or on long running projects, the notebook captures the entire problem solving and design approaches taken. It also allows teams to sustain progress within the engineering notebook, enhances collaboration, serves as a record for future projects, and acts as a professional document that will be expected from students by engineers in industry.
Reference Sources
- A holistic relook at engineering design methodologies for smart product-service systems development
- Authors: Jing-Cong Chen et al.
- Publication Date: November 1, 2020
- Summary:
- This paper presents a systematic literature review of existing engineering design methodologies to assess their suitability for developing smart product-service systems (PSS).
- The authors found that none of the existing methodologies fully meet the design characteristics required for smart PSS. They propose three research directions as potential solutions to address these gaps.
- The study emphasizes the need for a more integrated approach to engineering design that aligns with the complexities of smart PSS development(Jing-Cong et al., 2020, p. 122737).
- Design methodologies and engineering applications for ecosystem biomimicry: an interdisciplinary review spanning cyber, physical, and cyber-physical systems
- Authors: K. Hinkelman et al.
- Publication Date: January 20, 2023
- Summary:
- This interdisciplinary review synthesizes trends across case studies in ecosystem biomimicry, evaluating design methodologies and identifying future opportunities for engineering applications.
- The findings indicate that cyber-physical systems (CPS) frequently mimic organisms and ecosystems, while cyber systems (CS) and physical systems (PS) often mimic populations and molecular structures, respectively.
- The paper details ten well-documented biomimetic process models and discusses the need for systematic methods in ecosystem biomimicry(Hinkelman et al., 2023).
- MOF: A Modular Framework for Rapid Application of Optimization Methodologies to General Engineering Design Problems
- Authors: B. Andersen et al.
- Publication Date: April 1, 2022
- Summary:
- This paper introduces the Modular Optimization Framework (MOF), designed to facilitate the application of various optimization algorithms to engineering design problems.
- The authors demonstrate the framework’s capabilities through case studies, including nuclear engineering optimization problems, showcasing its effectiveness in finding optimized solutions efficiently.
- The study highlights the importance of modular design in integrating new optimization methods into existing frameworks(Andersen et al., 2022).
