Integration of mechanical design and prototyping activities

In this project, concepts of engineering graphics, mechanical design, numerical simulation, rapid prototyping and product testing are integrated in project experiences performed by interdepartmental teams of sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students. Working in vertically integrated teams, students were asked to design components using a commercial computer-aided design software package, perform analytical and finite element stress analyses, manufacture components using rapid manufacturing methods, and test components to verify their mechanical performance. In the first project, a planar structural component was machined using an abrasive waterjet (AWJ) cutting system. AWJ\u27s ability to machine a wide variety of materials allowed students to select from materials with widely varying mechanical properties. In addition to satisfying loading requirements, each team was required to consider material costs, machining costs and recycling costs. In the second project, a device for launching rubber balls was designed, manufactured, assembled and tested. The students used solid modeling software to create the models and produced components of the device using a three dimensional printer