Teaching Integrated Design and Manufacturing, Course Structure and Assessment

Authors

  • James B. Higley Purdue University Calumet

Abstract

Until recently, most engineering and engineering technology programs taught coursework piecemeal – one subject at a time with little integration between subjects. The failure of this system is well documented and has led to outcomes assessment and the now familiar ABET a-k criterion. Faculty at Purdue University Calumet (PUC) recognized the shortcoming of the original system and applied for an NSF ILI-IP grant which was awarded in late 1997 and continued through mid 2000. The grant resulted in significant changes in the engineering course ME461, Machine Design and the creation of the technology course MET461, Computer Integrated Design & Manufacturing. With two years of experience available, this paper discusses the structure, pedagogy, and assessment techniques for the latter course, which concentrates on 3D parametric modeling, graphical finite element analysis, and manufacturing using ProE/ProMechanica/ProManufacture in its integrated environment. Some observations that faculty new in this area may find helpful complete the paper.

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Issue

Vol. 67 No. 3 (2003): Autumn

Section

Feature Articles

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