Small Grants for Exploratory Research: Revising the Engineering Curriculum by Using Simulation Models for Engineering Design

Today's practicing engineers run their simulation models iteratively to help create product designs, often through ad hoc strategies for multiple runs. It has been observed that: (a) there are efficient strategies for planning multiple simulation runs; (b) many of these techniques are common across all engineering disciplines; and (c) there is a void in the United States engineering curriculum in this area. The objective of this effort is to create a modern course in engineering design, with a focus on the exercise of computer models to improve the performance and manufacturability of device and system designs, not just to analyze existing designs. An interdisciplinary course will provide a common language and approach that will allow engineers from different disciplines to work together more effectively. This will result in better designs for products and systems. This effort represents a unique and innovative mechanism for training engineers in engineering design. Tools of simulation will be combined with a case study approach using extensive industrial collaboration. The modular development of this interdisciplinary course will facilitate its transfer and use by manufacturing engineering programs throughout the country.