Integrating design in engineering graphics courses using feature-based, parametric solid modeling

Several schools are introducing feature-based, parametric solid modeling as a part of the Engineering Graphics course in the freshmen year. This new technology made the traditional methods of teaching engineering graphics obsolete. In most cases, the traditional methods assume that there is one correct representation for a given part. On the other hand, in solid modeling, a part can be created using several approaches with the same- or different-set of primitives. Some of these approaches are superior to the others as they capture the real design intent accurately. Due to the strong relationship between the part modeling approach and the design intent, this technology provides an excellent opportunity for introducing design. The paper discusses the role of graphics in the design process. Then, it summarizes the changes in the design process due to solid modeling. For instance, the traditional wisdom of creating an assembly drawing before the part drawings is no longer practical. These changes require radical restructuring of our teaching methodology. To address the need, the paper presents a methodology for teaching engineering graphics with an emphasis on feature-based, parametric solid modeling. Students can use this methodology to: identify alternative approaches for creating the model; evaluate their ability to capture the real design intent accurately; and incorporate the design intent by defining an appropriate set of datum planes and following good dimensioning practices. This methodology provides a tight integration between design and engineering graphics.