Creative Design of Products and Systems

This exciting, new text for is intended use in undergraduate engineering design methodology courses. Niku presents a cross-disciplinary approach to engineering design with a strong emphasis on creative thinking and problem-solving. Included are a large amount of end of chapter problems and numerous in-chapter creative problem-solving exercises. The material presented is appropriate for courses from the sophomore to senior level.

Topical coverage starts at the earliest step of ideation to the time the product will go to market. It introduces the designer to the practice of creative design by reviewing the mental barriers that prevent creative problem solving and design as well as ways to overcome these barriers. The text also covers design process, including Quality Function Deployment, Pugh matrix, and other related issues through mechanical, electrical, and architectural examples. By presenting a comprehensive, systematic approach to issues and factors that play a role in design, the text teaches the designer to understand the consequences of design decisions throughout the entire process, from when ideas are generated until the product or system goes to market.

Dr. Saeed Niku is a professor of Mechanical Engineering at California Polytechnic State University. His research interests include Mechanics, Machine Design, Biomechanics, Robotics, Creativity, and Design for the Disabled.