Problem SolvingUnit 2

Problem Solving

1. Define the problem – What is the problem?

2. Generate possible solutions – What are some things I can do to fix it?

3. Decide upon one solution – Pick one of the solutions

4. Implement the solution – Try out the solution

5. Evaluate the solution – Did this solution work?

6. Refine the solution – If not, try something different

The Engineering Design Process

• 8 steps

• Used often when creating a product

• Should follow the steps in order until they have been completed once

#1 - Identify the Problem

• What is the problem that is trying to be solved?

• Write a detailed statement about that problem.

• Example• Students continue to forget to bring their pencils to class. However,

when I let them borrow my pencils, they sometimes forget to return them. I need a device that will allow me to put class pencils together in one spot and something that will help me keep track of who borrows the pencils.

#2 - Research the Problem

• Examine current solutions

• Review the criteria and constraints

• Investigate related technologies, inventions, and innovations

• Example• I will look up current technologies that allow pencils to stay

together in one spot. I will also look up methods of keeping records.

#3 - Develop Possible Solutions

• Brainstorm possible solutions

• Analyze ideas through prior math and science knowledge

• Produce thumbnail sketches of possible solutions

• Example• Pencil pouch and sign out list

• Pencil cup and sign out list

• Piece of wood that holds the pencil with numbers next to holes

#4 - Select the Best Possible Solution

• Select one solution

• Refine the sketches into working drawings with annotations

• Example• Pencil cup with sign out sheet

Pencil Holder

Pencils

#5 - Construct a Prototype

• Prototype – working model

• Build a workable model of the product

• Example• The prototype

#6 - Test and Evaluate

• Does your prototype work?

• Collect data

• Example• The pencil cup worked great, but it took a long time to sign out

the pencils

#7 - Communicate the Solution

• Communicate the results of the solution

• Plan out the production of the product

• Example• A presentation of the data collect

• A chart showing the steps of how the product will be produced

Gather the material

Measure the material

Cut the material

Sand down the cut edges

Nail the 5 pieces

together

#8 - Review and Redesign

• Collect and review feedback

• Identify weaknesses and strengths

• If your design does not solve the original problem, redesign

• Redesign – go back through the loop and see where you can make changes

• Example • The sign out sheet is too time consuming. I am going to go back to

my solutions and choose a different one.

Spacecraft Design Challenge

• Soyuz Spacecraft Landing

• Review of the 8 steps in the Engineering Design Process

• Today you will work on steps 1-4 Only

• Design Brief for Unit 2