Designing Engineering Experiments

Experiment design is designing, executing, analyzing data of, and redesigning or repeating an experiment and reporting final data and conclusions from the experiments. Experiment redesign is done when the results are inconsistent and when variables and errors need to be eliminated.

           

Experiment design is done because it is the best way gather engineering data and learn. The experiments reveal how the real world works and if it aligns with one’s own math model or predictions then one obviously understands the principles of nature. Also, data cannot lie so one can be confident in one’s data and can be used to correct math models and misguided ideas. The reports resulting from experiment design can be shared and evaluated by others which is necessary for developing credibility.

Experiment design is done by first setting the goals for the experiment. Secondly, one must research the current knowledge about the subject(s) addressed in the experiment. Third, a hypothesis is generated. Fourth,: data measurement is planned, variables are defined, instruments are gathered and calibrated, the experiment is described step by step and all other needed materials and apparatus is gathered. Fifth, the experiment is executed; data is collected, recorded, and analyzed/ compared to one’s hypothesis and existing theories. Lastly, the process is repeated which may require a redesign of the experiment until reliable results are produced.

Some application of experiment design:

One can create multiple prototypes for a design project to generate data for deciding on a final design to best fit the goals of the project.

When one creates a math model, experimental data can be used for constant values (spring constants, mass, etc.) and to correct or confirm the model.

When learning one can teach another the ideas to provide evidence of personal areas of understanding and areas that lack understanding.

Experiment design is based on the scientific method, but not all people truly believe in things scientifically. These people exercise an “Alchemy” Belief System. They may believe in science but only when it supports their world view. When data contradicts their world view they employ defensive reasoning which is an irrational rejection of data. Those who have a Scientific Belief System, in contrast, use data and reasoning to continually develop and change their world view. The latter belief system is not as common because of biology. When a one faces a threat, in this case to one’s established understanding, a set of fear chemicals are released that reduce rational thought and increases instinctual reactions which are faster, in other words, one enters fight or flight. The Scientific Belief System requires rational thought, so naturally one does not exercise the Scientific Belief System. The Scientific Belief System requires one to actively decide to use rational thought during the specific time of threat described. Those who do make that decision benefit from new ways of thinking and better learning.

This is based on Dr. Don Elger’s website: learning4doing.com.