MEC 294 - Design for Manufacturing Capstone 1

 
Description
This course is the first in a two-course capstone sequence where students work with an industry partner to address a real-world manufacturing or engineering challenge. Students apply skills from previous coursework to define the problem, conduct background research and develop initial design concepts. Emphasis is placed on communication with the partner company, project planning and early-stage prototyping in the makerspace. Students present progress updates and receive feedback from stakeholders to guide further development in the subsequent capstone course.

1. Communicate effectively with an industry partner to understand project requirements and constraints.
2. Conduct background research and benchmarking to inform design decisions.
3. Apply engineering and manufacturing principles to develop preliminary design concepts.
4. Use computer-assisted drawing (CAD) software and digital fabrication tools to create early prototypes.
5. Collaborate effectively on a project team to manage tasks and responsibilities.
6. Prepare progress reports and presentations to industry stakeholders.
7. Document project work in a digital portfolio for iterative development in Design for Manufacturing Capstone 2.

1. Introduction to the capstone process and industry collaboration
2. Project planning and team organization
3. Problem definition and requirements gathering
4. Benchmarking and research of existing solutions
5. Concept generation and selection methods
6. CAD modeling for concept communication
7. Rapid prototyping techniques in the makerspace
8. Stakeholder communication and feedback loops
9. Project documentation and portfolio development

• Communication
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

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