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Abstract

Several of the intellectual capabilities required by designers working in the field of mechanical design in consumer products have been grouped together and defined as a holistic intellectual capability called ‘mechanical acumen’. Mechanical acumen is described as a key capability that enables novice product designers to engage in the process of generating solutions to problems in designing consumer products for mechanical performance. A structured methodology for teaching mechanical acumen has been given that can be used in a context where little previous student learning can be assumed. Some examples of students' work are provided that demonstrate the ability of individuals using the methodology to develop mechanical acumen and to use it in the creation of new product ideas.

Keywords

design mechanical acumen experiential learning

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Mechanical Acumen for Novice Product Designers: A Teaching Methodology

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References