3201 A Challenge to Establish a New Style of Education on Design Engineering : "Mechanical Engineering Design Project" in Tokyo Institute of Technology

Abstract

This paper introduces "Mechanical Engineering Design Project" offered to the junior class students of the department of mechanical engineering and science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, since 1993. This is a very challenging subject to seek and establish a new style of education on design engineering. In every year, over 80% junior students of the department take the subject. At first, every student proposes a new machine based on his/her own unique idea. Five proposals are accepted. Then, all students join to one of the five design teams. Each team makes all its members' efforts to design and produce a unique machine. Design drawing and cost accounting are required. One of the most important aims of this subject is to let students experience the enjoyment and the difficulty of designing machines.