Define the Problem
What step asks engineers to name the need or the problem they will solve?
Define the problem
What activity involves coming up with many possible solutions without judging them?
Brainstorm
What do you call a simple working version of a design used to test ideas?
Prototype
What action do engineers take when test results show the prototype needs work?
Modify the prototype.
Who can influence engineering choices by making laws that require safety features in cars?
Government regulators/regulations
What two things should be listed that limit how you solve a problem (examples: time, money, materials)?
Constraints (time, money/materials)
Name on research action engineers do during the Explore stage
Look up existing designs, read articles, observe
What step comes after building a prototype to see if it meets the criteria?
Test the prototype.
What does it mean to "analyze test results"?
Look at test data to find what worked or failed.
Name one safety feature mentioned in the source that changed over time.
Shoulder belt added vs. lap only seat belt
What short statement includes what a solution must do and the limits on the design?
A problem statement that contains a criteria/constraints
What is a model and why do engineers use models when exploring solutions?
A model is a simple representation used to test ideas.
Give two things engineers collect during testing that help them improve the design.
Data such as times, distances, failure points or observations
Give one example of a modification engineers might make to improve a toy car's speed.
Reduce friction change wheel size, lower weight.
Explain why cars changed shape over time and how that relates to fuel efficiency.
Streamlined shape reduces drag which improves fuel efficiency
Which activity requires comparing multiple solutions to decide which to make into a prototype?
Criterion: maximize speed; Constraint: limited budget or specific materials.
Which activity requires comparing multiple solutions to decide which to make into a prototype?
Evaluate possible solutions/compare options.
What does it mean to run a "fair test" on prototypes?
What is a controlled variable?
A fair test controls variables (same ramp, launch method when testing toy car)
Describe how repeating test after changes help engineers know whether their improvements worked?
Repeated tests show trends and confirm improvements.
Give two ways society (people and rules) influences what engineers design or test.
Peoples demands, laws, regulations, safety, safety testing, cost.
Give two reasons why it is important to clearly define the problem before making prototypes.
Reasons — clarifies goals, guides design choices, prevents wasted effort.
Explain how criteria and constraints help narrow brainstormed ideas into the best design choices.
Remove ideas that don't meet requirements, focusing effort.
How can modeling a solution help reduce time and cost before building a full prototype? Give two ways.
Models let you test shapes or forces cheaply and quickly, saving material and time.
Describe a historical change and explain how testing and government rules led to safer car designs.
Make small adjustments and test each change to get best performance.