Element G - Creation of a Testable Prototype

Preface

A well-designed and well-built prototype will make testing and the evaluation of the test data more realistic and valuable. Students typically view this lesson as the most exciting because they are actively engaged in building their prototypes. Using the agreed upon step-by-step explanation of the assembly directions will be important since all members of the team will have their own way of approaching the building of the prototype. Continued emphasis on the brainstorming technique will result in a better assembly procedure for their prototype. The modifications reinforce the importance of continued improvement across a project’s lifespan. Engineers seldom have a design solution that satisfies all criteria on the first try. Engineering change orders (ECOs) are a fact of life for design teams. Keep in mind that the materials used for the prototypes may have to be adjusted based on availability and access to the equipment necessary for the fabrication process.

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Assessment
Creation of a Testable Prototype

  1. The final prototype iteration is clearly and fully explained and is constructed with enough detail to assure that objective data on all or nearly all design requirements could be determined.
  2. All attributes (sub-systems) of the unique solution that can be tested or modeled mathematically are addressed.
  3. Well supported justification is provided for those attributes that cannot be tested or modeled mathematically and thus require expert review.

 

Essential Questions

  1. What is the plan to test the prototype design and how can I show others that the testing plan for each design requirement is a well thought our test and would yield believable data?