Download Engineering Functions: Roles and Responsibilities of Different Engineering Disciplines and more Study notes Engineering in PDF only on Docsity! DMH 12/30/2010 Page 1 of 3 Engineering Functions Engineering – the art of making things work Engineering is the application of science and mathematics by which the properties of matter and the sources of energy in nature are made useful to people in structures, machines, products, systems and processes. Teamwork Engineers typically work in a team environment with constant communication – you may have one person from each functional area or several depending on the size and complexity of the project. Organization of Functional Groups • Research and Development • Design • Manufacturing • Sales • Purchasing • Service • Subcontractors Organization of Skills • Engineers – responsible for ensuring that systems and devices are specified to operate within their theoretical limits, specify materials and sizes of parts & assemblies so failures do not occur. • Designers – responsible for product’s fit and finish – ergonomics & aesthetics. • Packaging Engineers – ensure the product is packaged properly to avoid damage, etc. • Drafters – responsible for documentation. • Fabricators – making parts according to specifications. • Inspectors – ensure that the products meet the specifications. • Technicians – responsible for operation and maintenance – they assemble various components to create working devices or structures, operate them, and maintain them. What Does an Engineer Do? Engineering Functions Research Research engineers are knowledgeable in principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. Computer know-how is also recommended. A Masters Degree is almost always required, and a Ph. D is often strongly recommended. DMH 12/30/2010 Page 2 of 3 Development Development engineers bridge the gap between the laboratory and the production facility. They also identify problems in a potential product by building prototypes. An example is the development of concept cars for companies like Ford and GM. Testing Testing engineers are responsible for testing the durability and reliability of a product and making sure that it performs how it is supposed to. Testing engineers simulate instances and environments in which a product would be used. Crash testing of a vehicle to observe effects of an air bag and crumple zone are examples of a testing engineer’s duties. Design The design aspect is where largest number of engineers are employed. Design engineers often work on components of a product, providing all the necessary specifics needed to successfully manufacture the product. Design engineers regularly use computer design software as well as computer aided drafting software in their jobs. Design engineers must also verify that the part meets reliability and safety standards required for the product. A concern always on the mind of design engineers is how to keep the development of a part cost effective, which is taken into account during the design process. Analysis Analysis engineers use computational tools and mathematical models to enrich the work of design and research engineers. Analysis engineers typically have a mastery of: heat transfer, fluid flow, vibrations, dynamics, acoustics, and many other system characteristics. Systems Responsible on a larger scale for bringing together components of parts from design engineers to make a complete product. Responsible for making sure all components of a product work together as was intended by the design engineers. Manufacturing & Construction Work individually or in teams Responsible for transforming raw materials into finished product. Keep records of processes and equipment. Help with design process to keep costs low.
