Activity 2.1.

1 Design Flaws
Introduction
Have you ever used a product that didn’t work quite right? Maybe you had problems
finding the ON switch or using the volume control. Have you ever seen a light switch
that appeared to operate nothing? Now imagine that you are on a design team that
is in charge of redesigning these flaws. What steps do you take in the journey?

Product analysis is important to the longevity and improvement of a design.

Changes to a product require designers to systematically follow the same process
required for a new product design.

In this activity you will see pictures of products that were poorly designed. You will
be asked to identify the flaws in the design and how the flaw relates to people. You
will then redesign the product and present your ideas to the teacher.

Equipment
 Bad Designs presentation
 Engineering notebook

Procedure
1. Choose an example of a product that was poorly designed. The example that you
choose must be different from the designs discussed during the bad designs
presentation. An example of a source for a product is www.baddesigns.com
2. Prepare a report of your findings including the items below.
a. Image of the bad design.
b. A full description of the chosen product.
c. Intended use of the product.
d. Any design flaw(s) with the product.
e. Issues with the flaw(s) related to economy, safety, functionality, and
ethics.
f. Recommendation to redesign the product to correct the flaws
described.

© 2013 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing Activity 2.1.1 Design Flaws – Page 1
Conclusion
1. Name and describe a product you typically use that has a defect related to
economy, safety, functionality, and/or ethics.
2. The Engineering Code of Ethics include four principles that are listed below. In
what way do the four principles, if any, apply to the design flaws listed above?
A. Use knowledge and skill for the enhancement of human welfare.
B. Be honest and impartial and serve with fidelity the public, their employers,
and clients.
C. Strive to increase the competence and prestige of the engineering
profession.
D. Support the professional and technical societies of their disciplines.

© 2013 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing Activity 2.1.1 Design Flaws – Page 2