Engineering Design Process Research Articles

Методы и подходы к решению задачи автоматизации проектирования технологических процессов для единичных и мелкосерийных производств

This paper gives an overview of existing solutions in the field of automation of technological process design in mechanical engineering. The applicability of existing methods for solving the problem of automating the design of technological processes for individual and small-scale production is assessed. A concept of building a system of automated design of technological processes for individual and small-scale production is formulated.

Development of the structure and methodological support of the system for analysis of the details shaping using the technological inheritability of their quality parameters

Theoretical approaches, computer modell methods and experimental studies analyse the state and behaviour of machine parts to determine the changes in their properties and parameters from a single synergetic position. Development and implementation of integrated information systems for control of technological processes of manufacturing parts and machines assembly is an essential mover of the economic growth of industrialized countries. Complicating the operational conditions for the products increases the requirements for the parameters of their accuracy, surface layer quality, performance characteristics and reliability indicators. A mechanical engineering product is a technical system consisting of many subsystems and using the functionally-oriented design of technological processes planning for parts manufacturing. The structure and methodological providing of the PSPAS-system (Product Shaping / Processing Analysis System) investigates. PSPAS system includes the investigations of the technological inheritability of mechanical engineering product quality parameters combined with the analysis of traditional subsystems (cutting, surface plastic deformation, surface layer modification, assembly). Rheological simulation modelling, holding of experimental studies, the combination of mathematical modelling, theoretical and practical studies of technological processes ensure the implementation of the CAF system using the principle of functionally-oriented design during parts manufacturing and machines assembly.

An Evaluation of the Boeing Diamond Process Model's Effectiveness for T‐7A Red Hawk Development

AbstractThe Boeing‐Saab built T‐7A Red Hawk advanced trainer aircraft being built for the United States Air Force represents a systems engineering breakthrough because it was developed through a digital effort. This aircraft will replace the aging T‐38 Talon fleet, providing increased capability and safety for future pilot trainees. Its creation was indubitably the result of persistent systems engineering efforts and a dedication to digital development. This study analyzed how Boeing engineers created their own version of the systems engineering vee process model to advance the design process of the T‐7A physically and digitally. Their “Boeing Diamond” process methodology of top‐down system design utilized a digital engineering process and modern computer techniques. They emphasized the importance of maintainability to expand lifecycle utilization and lower system costs. Based on a literature review of the T‐7A Red Hawk and other aircraft, a comparison was drawn between the Boeing Diamond systems engineering design processes and the vee model to determine which could provide greater benefits. Through analysis, this study demonstrated that the T‐7A processes used encouraged engineers to adapt to the digital world. The study results indicated that the Boeing Diamond process for modeling and digital design supported an efficient approach to the development of the T‐7A Red Hawk and is applicable to other major weapon systems or capital equipment. This research recommends further study of the Boeing Diamond model and incorporation of its elements into traditional systems engineering models and other organizations.

Full CMOS Circuit for Brain-Inspired Associative Memory With On-Chip Trainable Memristive STDP Synapse

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) implemented in neuromorphic computing architectures promise a high degree of bio-plausibility and energy efficiency compared to the artificial neural network (ANN). Thus, SNN-based spiking associative memories are preferred for high capacity, area, and energy-efficient neural associative memories (NAMs). While most previously published works focused on ANN-based NAM, this work implements the full CMOS circuit of memristor crossbar-based spiking NAM for the first time. Instead of using any software-based memristive SPICE model or memristive devices that are yet not available in standard CMOS technology process design kits (PDKs), in our work, the CMOS-based memristive synapse circuit is employed to address practical circuit implementation challenges. The complete on-chip learning of the system is demonstrated using the bio-plausible spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) learning mechanism without employing any external coprocessor, e.g., microprocessor, field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The entire system is implemented at the transistor level using 180-nm standard CMOS technology to demonstrate the pattern recognition application. The robustness of the proposed circuit is also evaluated to demonstrate the tolerance against the CMOS fabrication non-idealities.

Efficient Solvers for Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations in Computational Fluid Dynamics

Improving the computational efficiency of solving nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) is a key area of focus for this research, which has the ability to significantly impact computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The complexities of fluid flow phenomena can be difficult for traditional methods to handle, leading to simulations that are resource-intensive and computationally slow. The urgent requirement for improved computational tools capable of quickly and precisely simulating complex fluid dynamics scenarios is the driving force behind the significance of this research. New approaches are needed to solve nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which are characterized by turbulent flows, fluid-structure interactions, and high computing resource intensity. Adaptive mesh optimization and high-performance computing architectures are combined in the AMO-HPI technique, which provides a strategic solution. Adaptive Mesh Optimization based on High-Performance Integration (AMO-HPI) is suggested in this research as a way to improve the accuracy of solutions by focusing computational resources on regions of interest through adaptive mesh refinement and coarsening. Making effective use of shared-memory parallelism and message-passing interfaces (MPI) to divide up computational tasks. Improvements in engineering system performance, reliability, and safety can be achieved by the effective simulation of fluid dynamics processes, which opens up new design areas that were previously unreachable. When compared to other methods, AMO-HPI performs better in simulations due to its optimal resource utilization and decreased processing time. In addition to improving CFD methodology, this research could have far-reaching effects on engineering design processes in several industries, which would be great for innovation and sustainable development.

Hasil Validasi CATUR STEM: Buku Panduan bagi Guru Kimia untuk Menyusun RPP Berbasis STEM

There are not many detailed explanations on how to design STEM learning in chemistry lesson scope. This has made researchers and chemistry teachers not understand about its application in the classroom. Therefore, this study aims to develop a guidebook containing theories on how to design STEM learning. This research used Design and Development Research with these stages being carried out, namely (1) analysis of STEM concepts and lesson plans, (2) design of the CATUR STEM outline, (3) development of the contents of the CATUR STEM guidebook, and (4) assessment which includes validation of guidebook content. This guidebook has been declared very valid without revision by 12 validators involved with a validity value of 3.74 (out of a maximum score of 4.00). This guidebook contains information about STEM learning using modification of Engineering Design Process (EDP), how to create lesson plans based on Merdeka Belajar policy and STEM-EDP learning, and a collection of examples of STEM-EDP learning lesson plans. It is highly expected that this guidebook will later be tested to teachers of early childhood education programs, elementary schools, junior high school as an attempt to strengthen the theory of the STEM learning model.

PDCA from Theory to Effective Applications: A Case Study of Design for Reducing Human Error in Assembly Process

This article describes an efficient and effective way to apply the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) method in the design process to meet quality and stakeholders’ expectations. Through the case study of developing a smart workstation to train workers in the assembly process with a target to reduce the defects and improve the management task, the paper explores the main barriers and success factors for the PDCA cycle implemented in complex quality improvement projects. A prototype of the new workstation design is tested and shows significant benefits not only in defect reduction and management efficiency but also in newcomers’ learning process. This research can be used as a benchmark application of PDCA in quality improvement and engineering design processes with systematic and comprehensible guidance of the cycle.

Algorithms for Synthesis of Technological Operations for Manufacturing Samples of Structurally Complex Products

The aim of the study is to develop a mathematical model for the synthesis of technological operations in the structure of algorithms for a system of automated design of technological processes. When solving the problem of synthesis of technological operations in the structure of algorithms of the automated design system of technological processes for manufacturing prototypes of structurally complex products, the following algorithms are used: solving the direct choice problem; formation of a set of possible alternatives; checking possible alternatives for admissibility; formation of a set of acceptable alternatives; determining the set of desired typical technological solutions and optimizing the choice of solutions. A block diagram of the system of algorithms for the process of synthesis of technological operations, based on a combination of individual and standard technological solutions in the design of technological processes for the experimental production of prototypes of structurally complex products, has been obtained.

Virtual data-based generative optimization using domain-adaptive designable data augmentation (DADDA): Application to electric vehicle design

In the field of virtual product development, product performance is evaluated at an early stage through metamodel-based optimization using simulation, reducing development time and cost, and improving product quality. However, it takes a lot of time to construct a simulation model. The model must go through calibration and validation process to reduce errors with actual systems. This study proposes a novel engineering design process that can perform virtual data-based generative optimization by adapting the design domain of existing systems to those of new systems without requiring many simulations. A domain-adaptive designable data augmentation (DADDA) algorithm is proposed using inverse generator-implemented data augmentation, domain adaptation, and design optimization techniques. The DADDA algorithm can quickly provide optimal design variables for new systems compared to the genetic algorithm-based approximate optimization. The proposed process was applied to electric vehicle design. Driving responses and design variables related to safety performance were selected, and a small amount of training data was obtained using Modelica-based electric vehicle. As a result, it was shown that DADDA could significantly reduce the time required to derive optimal design variables by approximately 53% compared with the existing method. In addition, it is possible to derive the optimal performance for a new electric vehicle, which is approximately 21% better than that of an existing vehicle.

The influence of an engineering design-based STEM course on pre-service science teachers’ understanding of STEM disciplines and engineering design process

The influence of an engineering design-based STEM course on pre-service science teachers’ understanding of STEM disciplines and engineering design process

A SUSTAINABLE COMPUTATIONAL DESIGN CONCEPT USING WEB SERVICE METHODS

AbstractSimulation is fundamental to many engineering design processes and powers the field of computational design. Simulation inherently consumes energy resulting in CO2 emissions that impact our environment. While one can source energy from renewable sources and use energy efficient hardware, efforts need to also be made in how we can use simulation in a sustainable manner.This paper presents a sustainable simulation framework that borrows concepts from web services. The framework makes it easy for engineering firms to adopt and embed sustainable simulation practices thereby removing the burden from the designer tin thinking about how to design sustainably. An illustrative example reveals a 25% reduction in computational effort can be achieved by adopting the framework.

DESIGN PROCESS MODELLING TO MEASURE ENGINEERING PRODUCTIVITY IN BUILDING DESIGN

AbstractA multi-domain Matrix (MDM) is used to identify and analyse rework loops within the Building Design (BD) process caused by building regulations. To model this process, we used information from official documents, plans of work, email archives, and anecdotal evidence as a case study. Findings reveal that MDM can identify the rework loops caused by building regulations, this information forms the basis to improve current BD processes. The complexity of the rework loop including the processes, people and, deliverables involved in the rework loop is also identified. Further analysis can also use the MDM to estimate the costs incurred with each rework cycle. This MDM can also identify rework loops in other engineering design processes due to design changes.This study is part of a PhD project exploring engineering productivity in the construction industry using DRM. The results present an MDM that provides situation-specific insight, offering areas of process improvement, and support through engineering productivity measurement. This is one of the few studies that models rework loops in the BD process caused by regulations.

Differences in engineers’ brain activity when CAD modelling from isometric and orthographic projections

A way of presenting information in visual representations of technical systems influences the progress and the outcome of the engineering design process. Consequently, improving the means by and through which information is utilised during the process is one suggested approach to advancing engineering design. Engineers’ interaction with visual representations of technical systems is mainly visual and virtual. Although such interactions are cognitively complex, little is known about cognition (mental information processing) underlying the utilisation of design information during engineering design. To narrow the research gap, this study explores how visual representations of technical systems affect engineers’ brain activity while generating computer-aided design (CAD) models based on them. More precisely, the brain activity of 20 engineers is captured and analysed using electroencephalography (EEG) during the visuospatially-intensive design tasks of CAD modelling in two conditions; when technical systems are presented with orthographic and isometric projections in technical drawings. The results imply the sensitivity of engineers’ brain activity in CAD modelling to the visual representation from which a technical system is interpreted. In particular, significant differences are found in theta, alpha, and beta task-related power (TRP) over the cortex when interpreting the technical drawings and CAD modelling from them. Furthermore, the results reveal significant differences in theta and alpha TRP when considering the individual electrodes, the cortical hemispheres, and the cortical areas. In particular, theta TRP over the right hemisphere and the frontal area seems essential in distinguishing neurocognitive responses to the orthographic and isometric projections. As such, the conducted exploratory study sets the foundations for exploring engineers’ brain activity while performing visuospatially-intensive design tasks, whose segments are relatable to the aspects of visuospatial thinking. Future work will explore brain activity in other design activities that are highly visuospatial, with a larger sample size and an EEG device of a higher spatial resolution.

Assembly-style making: How structured making serves as an on-ramp to creativity and engineering design.

Makerspaces, workspaces where families can explore materials and tools collaboratively, can provide an opportunity for creative expression and early engineering learning in community spaces. The present study examined a cardboard-focused museum makerspace that included an assembly-style activity. Assembly-style making uses instructions to support makers. Such activities have been critiqued as limiting creativity and engineering thinking. However, makers who are less comfortable in makerspaces may benefit from assembly-style activities helping to scaffold their entry into the space. We explored these criticisms and potential benefits of assembly-style making through developing case studies of video data taken by families in a makerspace. Visitors made creative and personally meaningful creations when engaged in assembly style making. Moreover, assembly-style making mediated a family less comfortable with making to get started in the space alongside ample evidence of families following engineering design processes. Contrary to popular belief, assembly-style making offers an important support to novice makers, without eliminating creativity and engineering design processes, and should be considered in the mix of activities available in makerspaces to support makers of all levels of comfort in making.

Compounding, Rheology and Numerical Simulation of Highly Filled Graphite Compounds for Potential Fuel Cell Applications.

Highly filled plastics may offer a suitable solution within the production process for bipolar plates. However, the compounding of conductive additives and the homogeneous mixing of the plastic melt, as well as the accurate prediction of the material behavior, pose a major challenge for polymer engineers. To support the engineering design process of compounding by twin-screw extruders, this present study offers a method to evaluate the achievable mixing quality based on numerical flow simulations. For this purpose, graphite compounds with a filling content of up to 87 wt.-% were successfully produced and characterized rheologically. Based on a particle tracking method, improved element configurations were found for twin-screw compounding. Furthermore, a method to characterize the wall slip ratios of the compounded material system with different filler content is presented, since highly filled material systems often tend to wall slip during processing, which could have a very large influence on accurate prediction. Numerical simulations of the high capillary rheometer were conducted to predict the pressure loss in the capillary. The simulation results show a good agreement and were experimentally validated. In contrast to the expectation, higher filler grades showed only a lower wall slip than compounds with a low graphite content. Despite occurring wall slip effects, the developed flow simulation for the design of slit dies can provide a good prediction for both low and high filling ratios of the graphite compounds.

An Agile Systems Engineering Process for Stakeholder Needs Identification and Solution Concept Design

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a case study where an agile systems engineering process was used to identify stakeholder needs to design an improved cross‐organizational proposal development process during the proposal formulation phase of a program. The agile systems engineering process leveraged the incremental application of design thinking techniques to engage the stakeholders and identify the care‐abouts of an organization during proposal formulation in support of a change management effort. The goal of the change management effort was to design solutions that increased collaboration and engagement across the various internal and external stakeholders without changing the overarching corporate proposal development process. The identified solutions broke existing organizational silos and changed the dynamics of the organization impacting over 1,200 employees. The case study relates to the future of systems engineering (FuSE) concepts of stakeholder engagement and agility across organizational boundaries.

Development and implementation of engineering-based aircraft unit: middle school students’ engineering design process skills

Development and implementation of engineering-based aircraft unit: middle school students’ engineering design process skills

Elementary Students’ Management of Conflicts in an Engineering Design Process and Its Effects on Their Group Interaction Progress

Abstract This study aimed to examine how students managed conflicts in an engineering design process and how different management styles affected their group interaction progress. We observed three groups of students in classes, where they designed devices to solve water shortages. Students’ interactions involving conflict in these lessons were analyzed in terms of their conflict management style. Twenty conflict-based interactions were observed in the process of engineering design, and these occurred in all groups. Most conflict-based interactions we observed were task conflicts, and students showed conflict management styles of dominating, avoiding, obliging, integrating, and compromising. These different conflict management styles led to different amounts of progress in group interactions. Avoiding and dominating terminated interactions and prevented students from developing their ideas further. Dominating and obliging caused relationship conflict. Integrating and compromising management styles led to more productive student interactions. This study suggests that further educational efforts are necessary to teach students how to effectively manage conflicts in engineering design processes.

Review of research on performance of stirling engine regenerators

The performance of Stirling engine regenerators has a huge influence on the efficiency of Stirling engines. Hence, the Stirling engine design process focuses on the study of the engine regenerator. To find out possible ways to improve regenerator performance, scholars from different countries have done a lot of research on analytical methods and factors affecting heat flow in the regenerator. Whereas, different ways of modelling are used in these studies, and the results are not organized so well. The present work aims to summarize and arrange other researchers work and then provide evidence for practical improvements and optimization. In addition, this work clearly shows the aspects of regenerator analysis, which enables new researchers to better find their orientation.

How do engineers do that?—An interactive introduction to the engineering design process for secondary age school pupils

It is widely accepted that the United Kingdom (UK) needs more engineers and professionals with skills in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to benefit the economy and keep up with technological change and innovation. However, the true nature of engineering and STEM careers is often misunderstood, with secondary school pupils unable to identify where engineering benefits their everyday lives. This suggests that the societal impacts of engineering are not well-defined within secondary education, causing a lack of diversity in pupils pursuing STEM careers. The authors have developed an activity that demonstrates the true problem-solving nature of engineering, and the numerous ways in which these skills can be applied to everyday life. While most practical ‘design, build and test’ (DBT) exercises aim to foster student engagement with STEM, this activity also emphasises how the engineering design process is a crucial tool for reaching an optimum solution. Pupils work in teams generating ideas and learning from failure, gaining a greater appreciation of how engineers work and the truly exciting nature of engineering. They achieve this by using the engineering design process to help them complete a DBT activity involving building a bridge from limited materials and testing how much weight it can hold. To ensure all pupils have the same opportunities for engagement, the method of delivery, activity design, key learning outcomes, discussion points, and activity relevance have been carefully considered for pupils across a range of age groups, backgrounds, and subject interests. This makes the designed activity ideal for integration into various subject lessons in secondary school classrooms to expose pupils to engineering. The authors have successfully delivered this activity during numerous outreach schemes for pupils visiting the University of Bath, especially noting pupils’ engagement and enthusiasm.