Overview

Scientists discover what is. Engineers create what has never been. Design is the creative heart of engineering. It’s about solving problems under constraints.

Core Idea

Iterative Process: Design is a cycle, not a straight line.

  1. Define Problem.
  2. Brainstorm.
  3. Prototype.
  4. Test.
  5. Refine.
  6. Repeat.

Formal Definition (if applicable)

Constraints: The limits you must work within (Budget, Time, Physics, Regulations). Criteria: The goals you want to achieve (Speed, Safety, Aesthetics).

Intuition

Building a bridge.

  • Constraint: Must cost < $10M. Must span 500ft.
  • Criteria: Must look good. Must last 100 years.
  • Trade-off: Stronger materials cost more.

Examples

  • CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Using software to model parts in 3D before building them.
  • Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing a model to test fit and form.
  • Failure Analysis: Studying why things broke to design them better next time.

Common Misconceptions

  • “Design is just making it look good.” (That’s styling. Engineering design is about function.)
  • “The first idea is the best.” (It rarely is. You need to fail fast and iterate.)
  • Systems Engineering: Managing complex projects with many parts (e.g., the Apollo program).
  • Human Factors: Designing for how people actually use things (ergonomics).
  • Sustainability: Designing for the full lifecycle (cradle to grave).

Applications

  • Product Design: iPhones, Dysons.
  • Infrastructure: Cities, transport.
  • Software: UI/UX design.

Criticism / Limitations

“Scope Creep” (adding features until the project is late and over budget). Over-engineering (making it too complex).

Further Reading

  • Petroski, Invention by Design
  • Norman, The Design of Everyday Things