The Crucial Role of Critical Thinking in an Integrated Approach to Machine Design Problems

Engineering technology students are expected to focus more on applied and hands-on learning, gaining practical knowledge that aligns with industry needs. The industry seeks graduates who are prepared for day-to-day work and well-versed in applied engineering and industry applications. It is beneficial for technology students to engage in problem-solving in machine design using an integrated approach, which exposes them to real-time circumstances in the industry. While students are taught how to design mechanical elements such as shafts, gears, bearings, etc., individually, it is equally essential for them to understand how to integrate these elements into systems or sub-systems. Example problems will be discussed to illustrate how each machine element interacts with other machine elements, aiding students in designing a cohesive system. In an integrated design approach, the output of one machine element serves as input to another, creating a continuous flow of information. An example problem will be presented with minimal inputs, requiring students to devise solutions by selecting appropriate factors that align with industry requirements to solve the problem. They will be encouraged to articulate their thought process behind these selections. Since the industry relies heavily on adhering to industrial standards, students must cite relevant standards in each design decision, drawing from what they learned during their classroom exercises. This approach requires a significant amount of critical thinking, as students must justify their assumptions when addressing various aspects such as the selection of driven machinery, duty cycles, and work environment conditions. Considerations such as stress concentration factors, bearing span and lifespan, interference between machine elements, and selecting appropriate tolerances are crucial. This paper focuses on the integrated problem-solving method and highlights the essential critical thinking requirement in engineering technology education.