The Mechanical Design Process

A nice overview of the engineering design process. What is really nice is that the author includes a few examples per chapter--many design texts do not take this extra step. One really good aspect of the text is that the topics flow well for a Capstone Design class. Even QFD is explained in detail without getting too bogged down with the different uses it could have. Though, the author did not explain exactly *how* to use QFD in the design process, there was plenty of detail for a good introduction. It would be helpful to have problem assignments, to make the text more like a classroom text. But again, most design texts have difficulty taking this approach. The irony with my review: I was a grad student when Ullman's 1st and 2nd editions were out, and I saw many omissions I would have liked to have filled (particularly on DFM and QFD). Now, as the capstone design professor at a small university, I see how difficult it can be to lay out a textbook on this topic (because I have tried!). The author did a fine job of it.

This text has fast become a favorite at our company; reminding our engineers of some of the key fundamentals of the machine design process. As designers of advanced machine design software technologies, Dr. Ullman's book has inspired the team resulting in valuable brainstorm sessions and innovations. All have found this text to be a great and engergizing read. I highly recommend this text and am glad that my son will have the opportunity of using it in his mechanical engineering studies at college.

Ullman provides an easy to understand text on an extremely detailed subject matter. I used it in a sophomore design class to get an overview of the mechanical design process and will use it again for senior capstone design. The text starts off using techniques/tools we're already familiar with and segways into more detailed and specific methods of concept development. The bicycle example does a great job of showing a designer's thought process and is a good inclusion to the book. Also, it helps that Ullman knows how to get to the point. However, some of the charts are difficult to grasp, and the material on cost and marketing are a bit dull. Although, that's probably due to the subject and not the author.