Objective: 

The objective of the semester project is to develop and understanding of  
of selected manufacturing phases, processes, and material properties 
required to produce a simple manufactured product.  The project may be completed as a team project or done individually.  No more than 5 people are allowed on a team.  Note:  The more people per team, the more comprehensive the project must be. 

Background: 

Reverse engineering is a common practice of analyzing an existing product  
(often that of another manufacturer) to gain insight of how the product can be produced and what processes and materials are required.  Many new  
products are developed in this manner provided the no infringement of patent rights are violated. 

Procedure: 

Identify a product (preferably one produced by a local manufacturer) as packaged for resale.  If it is not possible to obtain a locally produced product, one may be purchased from a local retailer.    The product must conform to the following guidelines: 

              1.  The product must constist of at least four, but not more than 10 
                    components (excluding fasteners and packaging); 

              2.  The product cannot be a prototype or  speciality custom item. 
                    It must be mass produced, and preferrably assembled by 
                    automation; however this is not an absolute requirement. 

Approval: 

A written proposal must be submitted to the instructor by week four.  The proposal must include a sketch or photograph, parts list (identifying materials used), an outline of the manufacturing processes for production. 

Final Report and Presentaion: 

Each team must present a final written report and formal presentation at the end of the term.  A description of the required items are given on the following page.