Introduction to the ME curriculum through product engineering case studies

Product engineering, through reverse engineering and team projects, is an effective way to introduce freshmen of diverse backgrounds to Mechanical Engineering (ME) and provide them with a world introductory exposure to product design, manufacturing and systems operation. This paper discusses several components of the ldquoEngineering Experiencesrdquo course developed at Stevens Institute of Technology (SIT), which aims to provide entering students with hands-on experiences and exposures to the world of operating mechanical systems. Students from a variety of engineering majors work in teams to dissect products, analyze their function by applying appropriate operating principles, design alternatives by building simplified physical models of a system, develop technical drawings, exchange drawings with different groups to manufacture their product, test and operate the product. Examples of products studied in the class include gear pumps, sewing machines, engines, electric drills, electrical screw drivers, toys, etc. The range of products on the selection list provides a great deal of insight and helps students enhance their understanding of what the discipline has to offer. Student feedback confirms that the course helps them develop a clear overview of the different fields within ME, gives them a general idea of what mechanical engineering work is about, and how the upcoming curricular elements as they relate to especially engineering science contribute to the development of expertise especially important to the product engineering.