Design engineering forms the basis of all engineering disciplines. In fact, it is considered to be a more practical solution to all common problems. Its steps are seen throughout the product design phase, system engineering phase, development phase as well as in the manufacturing phase. Collectively, these steps serve as a guarantee for a smooth transition from a mere concept through to actual production and eventual launch of the item, equipment or system designed previously into the market.

Taking into consideration the definitive nature of design engineering, the whole process is characteristic of a very straight forward procedure which encompasses the steps highlighted below.

Identification of the problem

As strange as it may sound, in the absence of a problem, engineering of a design can never proceed. In the terms of product design, a “problem” usually addresses a particular customer or market requirement. For instance, within an industry, there may be urgent need to make improvements onto some equipments etc. regardless of the problem, whoever raises it or the person who needs it, it just has to be solved.

Take note, prior to the commencement of any actual engineering works, an in-depth research is carried out in a bid to establish the most potential solutions for the user. In addition to this, existing products and all possible solutions are also carefully examined. All of this collectively assists in defining all the requirements of a particular product or system.

Creation of drawings and the construction of a prototype

It is important to note that nay research which is carried out during the initial stages of design engineering usually forms the basis for blue prints and schematics of the final product, equipment, structure or machine. At the moment, this is being done with the help of CAD software. The results are clearly evident from the construction of 3D models amongst to mention the least. Take note, as much as it is drafters collaborating with mechanical engineers who are often engaged in carrying out these tasks, it is the design engineer who has the full knowledge of how the entire system works down to the individual parts.

Testing

This step is often repeated several times in order to help identify problems which may have not been considered or may have not been realised before during the early stages of research and development of the design. In short, the testing phase allows design engineers and developers to sort any errors or work any bugz out of a product before the final product is created. In addition to the above, even though functionality is usually not a big issue at this stage, emphasis is usually placed on the manner in which the target customers or clients react to or better yet perceive the product. In fact, such feedback usually directly influence the changes made to the prototype.

Documentation

As far as product designing is considered, apart from being able to be created by the lead engineer, the same product also needs to be reproduced by the manufacturing team efficiently. this being the case, all solutions, steps, tests and support mechanisms need to be thoroughly documented for reference in case need arises.