Lecture Notes: The Engineering Design Process Illustrated with Tacos

Introduction

• The engineering design process is compared to making tacos.
• Scenario: You’re hungry after a long day and friends are coming over in 30 minutes.

Steps in the Engineering Design Process

1. Define the Problem or Need

• Problem: Hunger and impending arrival of friends who might also be hungry.

2. Research and Identify Design Requirements

• Assess available resources:
  • Ingredients on hand
  • Budget
  • Time limit before friends arrive
  • Number of people to feed
  • Dietary restrictions

3. Brainstorming

• Explore possible food options online and from available ingredients.
• Conclusion: Making food at home is cheaper and faster.
• Initial idea: PB and J on corn tortillas (due to lack of gluten-free bread).

4. Prototype and Test

• Prototype: Make a PB and J on corn tortillas.
• Test: Taste test the creation.
  • Feedback: It's gross.
  • Gather additional feedback from roommates or family.

5. Iteration

• Analyze feedback and reassess ingredients.
• New idea: Make veggie tacos.
• Test again: Feedback indicates the tacos are dry.

6. Further Iteration

• Solution: Add guacamole to tacos.
• Feedback: Tacos taste good but could use some spice.
• Action: Call a friend, Sam, to bring hot sauce.

7. Solution and Sharing

• Friends arrive at 7:30 and tacos are served.
• Positive feedback on tacos: Suggestions to share the recipe online.
• Outcome: Solved hunger problem and successfully hosted a taco party.