Concurrent engineering is a new approach to product development in which all phases of the design paradigm are considered simultaneously during the early stages of the design process. The concurrent engineering paradigm is characterized by a 3-D solid model data base that can be used directly for engineering analysis, prototype manufacturing, and production of engineering documentation. Engineering and technology curricula should be modified accordingly to answer this modern need for concurrent engineering design education. Of particular interest in this project is the infusion of a meaningful concurrent engineering experience in the lower-division curriculum where students need motivation and encouragement to continue their studies. The format of the project consists of two one-week workshops held during the summer of 1995 at the University of Texas at Austin. The workshops will be accessible to lower-division faculty from both four-year schools and two-year colleges. A total of 48 faculty participants will be accommodated and matched to one of the workshops based on their background. Topics of the workshop will include: 1. 3-D solid modeling techniques; 2. application of solid model data to design analysis such as mass properties and finite elements; 3. application of the model data to manufacturing simulation and rapid prototyping; 4. generation of engineering documentation from the solid model; and 5. curriculum and laboratory development issues. A highlight of the workshop will be a short team design project in which a rapid physical prototype is derived from a solid model of a mechanical part designed by the team. The project will prepare the participants to develop local instructional material and modern CAD/CAM laboratories that will afford their students a meaningful, early exposure to concurrent engineering design concepts. In addition, the project will motivate the participants to become active in making and publishing their own contributions to eng ineering education.
