The first step in the problem-solving process, therefore, is to formulate the problem in clear and unambiguous terms. Defining the problem is not the same as recognizing a need.
The problem definition statement results from first identifying a need. The engineer at the
airbag company responded to a need to reduce the number of airbag inflation failures. He
made a mistake, however, in not formulating a clear definition of the problem before generating a solution. Once a need has been established, engineers define that need in
terms of an engineering design problem statement. To reach a clear definition, they collect data, run experiments, and perform computations that allow that need to be expressed as part of an engineering problem-solving process.
Consider for example the statement "Design a better mousetrap." This statement is not an adequate problem definition for an engineering design problem. It expresses a vague dissatisfaction with existing mousetraps and therefore establishes a need. An engineer would take this statement of need and conduct further research to identify what was lacking in existing mousetrap designs. After further investigation the engineer may discover that existing mousetraps are inadequate because they don't provide protection from the deadly Hantavirus carried by mice. Therefore, a better mousetrap may be one that is sanitary and does not expose human beings to the Hantavirus. From this need, the problem definition is modified to read, "Design a mousetrap that allows for the sanitary disposal of the trapped mouse, minimizing human exposure to the Hantavirus."
The problem statement should specifically address the real need yet be broad enough not to preclude certain solutions. A broad definition of the problem allows you to look at a wide range of alternative solutions before you focus on a specific solution. The temptation at this point in the design process is to develop a preconceived mental "picture" of the problem solution. For example, you could define the better mousetrap
problem as "Design a mousetrap that sprays the trapped mouse with disinfectant." This statement is clear and specific, but it is also too narrow. It excludes many potentially innovative solutions. If you focus on a specific picture or idea for solving the problem at this stage of the design process, you may never discover the truly innovative solutions to the problem. A problem statement should be concise and flexible enough to allow for
creative solutions.
Here is one possible problem definition statement for our better mousetrap problem:
A Better Mousetrap: Certain rodents such as the common mouse are carriers and transmitters of an often fatal virus, the Hantavirus. Conventional mousetraps expose people to this virus as they handle the trap and dispose of the mouse. Design a mousetrap that allows a person to trap and dispose of a mouse without being exposed to any bacterial or viral agents being carried on the mouse.
ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS
Education Transfer Plan
Prepared by
Seyyed Khandani, Ph.D.
skhandani@dvc.edu
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