As you learned in this unit, sketching and visually representing ideas is an important part of any engineering job. For this project, you will need to create a new machine. It can be something simple, like a potato peeler, or something more complex like a flying car. Because this is just getting your basic idea on paper, don’t worry too much about how possible your design is. Focus on the fact that it must meet a need, and design a machine that addresses that need. Remember, engineering is about thinking beyond limits.

Question

Your drawing should incorporate some basic perspective, which has to do with showing depth in art. Perspective is a technique that allows artists to naturally represent 3D objects on a 2D surface and create an illusion of space and/or depth. This often involves the use of converging lines or vanishing points. If you are not familiar with perspective, there are many excellent sites and videos online that can show you the basics:

Art Glossary: Perspective
Understanding Perspective and Painting Depth
Linear and Aerial Perspective
Once you have completed your sketch, either scan it or take a picture of it to submit.

Images are not all that is used to communicate ideas. Writing is also important. Write a brief paragraph describing your machine. Explain how the design you chose helps it perform the need that you have identified. Highlight any features of the design you included to better meet that need.

Answer 1

Machine Concept: The Eco-Cleaner Drone

Sketch Description: In my sketch, I've designed a small drone called the Eco-Cleaner, which is capable of cleaning outdoor public spaces such as parks, beaches, and hiking trails. The drone has a sleek and lightweight design, resembling a large bird with wide wings for optimal aerodynamics. It hosts multiple compartments on the underside for collecting trash and debris, along with a small solar panel array on top to harness renewable energy for its operation. The front features high-definition cameras and sensors for identifying litter, while the back includes a compartment for compacting collected waste to allow for maximum storage. The drone has an intuitive control interface, enabling users to program designated areas for clean-up.

Paragraph Description: The Eco-Cleaner Drone addresses the pressing need for efficient outdoor waste management and environmental conservation. Its design focuses on automation and optimization; the lightweight form ensures ease of transport and maneuverability, while the solar panel feature enables long-duration operation without the need for frequent recharging. The drone's advanced sensors and cameras allow for real-time identification of trash, ensuring that it is both effective and timely in cleanup operations. Additionally, the waste-compaction feature maximizes storage capacity, allowing it to gather more litter before needing to return to the disposal point. By combining sustainability and technology, the Eco-Cleaner Drone provides a innovative solution to the challenge of keeping our public spaces clean and preserving the environment.