Introduction to Engineering Design from edX

Welcome to Introduction to Engineering Design, the first course in the Engineering Design and Simulation Program. This course will give you a comprehensive overview of the engineering design workflow through the power of modeling and simulation, using the example of a quadcopter.

In this first course, you will navigate and run existing models. Building on this foundation, you will inspect simulation results to observe the system's behavior changes. Whether you are an engineer modeling every day, or part of a larger design team who wants to experiment and understand more about the tools in use, you will find these skills valuable.

An essential aspect of the course is mastering the interpretation of simulation results. You will learn to effectively analyze and draw meaningful conclusions from the simulation outputs, enhancing your engineering design capabilities.

By the end of this course, you will know how to navigate Simulink, run simulations, and analyze results while gaining the ability to break down complex systems into subsystems and interpret simulation outputs for effective engineering design.

No prior modeling experience is required. Simulink and Simscape, industry-leading block diagram environments, are used throughout the courses to teach fundamental modeling workflows. You will be provided with a free license for the duration of the program.

What's inside

Learning objectives

An introduction to the engineering design workflow
How to apply engineering system design

An introduction to the simulink environment

An introduction to the engineering design workflow
How to apply engineering system design
An introduction to the simulink environment

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Guides learners through a real-world engineering scenario, providing a practical understanding of the engineering design process

Introduces learners to industry-standard software and tools, such as Simulink and Simscape, equipping them with marketable skills

Lays a solid foundation for learners interested in pursuing careers in engineering, providing a comprehensive overview of the field

Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in engineering design, providing learners with access to valuable insights and industry knowledge

Facilitates hands-on learning through simulation exercises, allowing learners to apply their knowledge and gain practical experience

Requires no prior modeling experience, making it accessible to learners from diverse backgrounds and skill levels

Reviews summary

Foundational engineering design with simulink

According to students, this course provides a solid introduction to the engineering design workflow, particularly for those new to modeling and simulation with Simulink. Learners praise the hands-on labs and practical exercises, often highlighting the engaging quadcopter example for making abstract concepts tangible. Many find the instructor's explanations clear and easy to follow, especially for beginners. While the course is highly effective for foundational knowledge, some experienced engineers feel the content is too basic and could benefit from delving into more advanced topics. Recent reviews suggest an improvement in clarity and structure compared to earlier feedback.

Perfect for beginners, but experienced users may find it too basic.

"Absolutely fantastic for beginners! I had no prior experience with engineering design or Simulink, and this course guided me perfectly."

"If you're completely new to Simulink, it might be okay, but as an engineer, I found it somewhat superficial."

"I struggled with the course as a true beginner; it sometimes assumed more prior knowledge than implied."

Recent updates enhance clarity and address past feedback.

"Some of the video quality was a bit inconsistent in older sections, though newer ones seem improved."

"I was disappointed initially, finding the content disorganized and explanations unclear. I'm glad to see recent improvements addressing this."

"The content is well-structured, covering the workflow effectively. I think the course has improved over time."

Explanations are generally clear, but pacing varies.

"The instructor's explanations were spot-on, and the assignments were challenging but fair."

"The step-by-step approach to running simulations and analyzing results was very clear."

"Some explanations felt rushed, and I had to re-watch lectures multiple times to grasp the concepts."

Real-world examples make complex concepts clear.

"The quadcopter example made the concepts incredibly clear and engaging. The hands-on labs solidified my understanding."

"I found the initial modules a bit slow, but it quickly picked up. The simulation exercises were very beneficial."

"The quadcopter project was a nice touch, making the abstract concepts tangible. I appreciated the practical application of Simulink."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Engineering Design with these activities:

Review Simulink basics

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Review the basics of Simulink to ensure a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Simulink

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Review the Simulink documentation
Complete the Simulink tutorials
Create a simple Simulink model

Participate in peer study groups

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Engage with fellow students in peer study groups to enhance your understanding and retention of course material.

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Form a study group with classmates
Meet regularly to discuss course topics
Work together on assignments and projects

Simulate different quadcopter models

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Practice simulating different quadcopter models to develop proficiency in using Simulink.

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Find a library of quadcopter models online
Import a model into Simulink
Run simulations for different flight conditions
Analyze the simulation results

Four other activities

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Mentor junior students in engineering design

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Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring junior students in engineering design, reinforcing your own understanding and contributing to the community.

Browse courses on Mentoring

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Volunteer as a mentor for a student organization or program
Provide guidance and support to mentees
Share your experiences and insights

Compile a resource library for quadcopter design

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Consolidate your learning by compiling a comprehensive resource library for quadcopter design, providing a valuable tool for your future projects.

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Gather resources from various sources
Organize and categorize the resources
Create a central repository for the library

Build a Simulink model of a custom quadcopter

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Demonstrate your understanding of quadcopter design and Simulink by building a model of your own custom quadcopter.

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Design the quadcopter system
Create a Simulink model of the system
Simulate the model and analyze the results
Present your model and findings

Participate in a quadcopter design competition

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Challenge yourself by participating in a quadcopter design competition to showcase your skills and knowledge.

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Find a suitable competition
Design and build a quadcopter for the competition
Test and refine your quadcopter
Compete in the competition

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Engineering Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers are responsible for the design, development, testing and manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Automotive Engineer

Automotive Engineers design, develop, and test automobiles. They work on a variety of vehicle systems, including engines, transmissions, brakes, and suspensions. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Automotive Engineer

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers apply engineering principles to the design and development of medical devices and systems. They work on a variety of projects, including artificial organs, prosthetics, and medical imaging systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Engineer

Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers design, develop, and operate chemical plants and processes. They work on a variety of projects, including the production of chemicals, fuels, and pharmaceuticals. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new structures, the repair of existing structures, and the development of new construction methods. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Computer Engineer

Computer Engineers design, develop, and test computer systems. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new computer hardware, the development of new software applications, and the integration of computer systems into complex systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Engineer

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new electrical devices, the development of new electrical systems, and the integration of electrical systems into complex systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers design, develop, and implement systems and processes that improve productivity and efficiency in a variety of industries. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new production lines, the development of new work methods, and the implementation of new quality control systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Engineer

Materials Engineer

Materials Engineers design, develop, and test new materials. They work on a variety of projects, including the development of new materials for use in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical applications. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new machines, the development of new products, and the integration of mechanical systems into complex systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Mechatronics Engineer

Mechatronics Engineers design, develop, and test systems that integrate mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new robots, the development of new medical devices, and the integration of mechatronics systems into complex systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer

Mining Engineer

Mining Engineers design, develop, and operate mines. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new mines, the development of new mining methods, and the implementation of new safety and environmental systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Engineer

Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design, develop, and operate nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new nuclear power plants, the development of new nuclear fuel, and the implementation of new safety and security systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nuclear Engineer

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design, develop, and operate oil and gas wells. They work on a variety of projects, including the design of new oil and gas wells, the development of new drilling methods, and the implementation of new safety and environmental systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. They work on a variety of projects, including the development of new software products, the maintenance of existing software applications, and the integration of software systems into complex systems. An Introduction to Engineering Design can help build a foundation for this role by providing an overview of the engineering design workflow and how to apply engineering system design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer