Activity 3.2.1 Product Observation
Activity 3.2.1 Product Observation
Activity 3.2.1 Product Observation
1 – Product Observation
Introduction
Have you ever noticed how children are fascinated with how objects work? Many
engineers have stated that they can trace back their interest in their chosen field to
their childhood, when they would tear apart broken objects to figure out what caused
them to move and function.
You have performed a visual analysis of your selected product to identify the visual
design principles and elements that give the object its visual appeal, or lack there of.
The next step in the reverse engineering process involves the study of the object’s
function. This is done through careful observation of the object’s sequential
operation before it is disassembled. By first observing the product, you can
hypothesize how a product operates and then compare your predictions to your
actual findings after the part is dissected.
Equipment
• Activity 3.2.1a Example Product Observation
• Engineer’s notebook
• Number 2 pencil
Procedure
In this activity, you will analyze the function of your consumer product.
Before measurement and dissection, you must theorize how the product functions
through non-destructive observation. Identify your product’s name and the company
that produced it, and answer the following questions.
3. Make an educated guess as to how this product operates. Use simple machines’
terminology to explain the object’s sequential operation.
6. What is it about this device’s function that you cannot identify, because the
mechanical components are hidden from plain view?