Engineering: The nature of problems
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## Contents

- Introduction
- Learning outcomes
- 1 Problems and innovation
  - 1.1 Solving problems
  - 1.2 Innovation by context
  - 1.3 Innovation by development
  - 1.4 Routine solutions
- 2 Where does the need arise?
- 3 Needs and problems
- 4 Looking for solutions
  - 4.1 Advancing knowledge
  - 4.2 From a need to a problem
  - 4.3 Possible solutions
  - 4.4 Evaluate solutions
    - 4.4.1 Selecting the best candidate
  - 4.5 Model the best solution
    - 4.5.1 Mathematical models
    - 4.5.2 Physical models
  - 4.6 Assess and review
  - 4.7 Build prototype/demonstrator
  - 4.8 Assess and review again
  - 4.9 Final implementation
- 5 A problem in bicycle design
  - 5.1 The development of the bicycle
  - 5.2 Material comparisons
  - 5.3 Back to the bicycle
- 6 A problem with sensors
- 7 Responsible engineering
  - 7.1 The engineer and society
  - 7.2 The professional engineer
  - 7.3 Ethics and safety
  - 7.4 The impact of technology on society
- Conclusion
- References
- Acknowledgements

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