End-to-end design training: from descriptive geometry to computer modeling of cutting tools

Abstract

Modern trends in the development of technology are based mainly on successful engineering activities. The combination of the most modern computer technologies and the traditions of using a pencil, drawing, drafts, and, of course, a living fruitful thought is a guarantee of the education of a genuine Engineer. On the one hand, educational technologies in engineering universities at the initial stage should be based, in our deep conviction, on school geometry. On the other hand, descriptive geometry and engineering graphics should contain examples for immersion in the chosen specialty. By order of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation, engineering classes, in which lecturers of technical universities were involved, were organized 10 years ago in Moscow schools. The creation of engineering classes is caused by the need to instill in students an interest in the engineering profession. To successfully solve this problem, it is necessary to increase the level of students» knowledge in geometry and drawing. On the basis of these subjects, one should develop design skills and skills of using computer modeling tools. The result of this cooperation should be the involvement of schoolchildren to participate in competitions and olympiads. The Department of Engineering Graphics, Bauman Moscow State Technical University, has accumulated 30 years of experience in cooperation with specialized schools in order to develop students» interest in the engineering profession. The article provides an example of the introduction of a common cutting tool, i. e. a drill, which demonstrates the depth of engineering thought formed over a thousand-year history, into the educational process when studying geometry at school and descriptive geometry at a technical university. The drill as an object comprehensible to first-year students is used to provide the basic knowledge of descriptive geometry. In addition, the problem related to the improvement of the technology of end-to-end training throughout the course of obtaining an engineering education is touched upon.