In the Engineering Design Process, which is the second step?

In the Engineering Design Process, the second step—identifying criteria and constraints—is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire project. This step follows the initial problem definition and involves specifying the requirements for the solution. Criteria refer to the goals that the design should achieve, such as performance metrics, durability, or user-friendliness. Constraints are the limitations that must be adhered to during the design process, such as budget limitations, materials available, time constraints, or regulatory requirements.

Establishing clear criteria and constraints ensures that the design options considered later are relevant and feasible, guiding the brainstorming and development phases in a focused manner. It helps to create a clear framework within which the engineering team can operate, ultimately leading to more effective and practical solutions. Thus, the identification of these elements is a fundamental step in the overall design process.