Research and Development

Define Research & Development

The practical application of scientific and engineering knowledge for discovering new knowledge about products, processes, and services, and then applying that knowledge to create new and improved products, processes, and services that fill market needs.

Research and development provides a means of discovering and observing technological ideas through the process of inquiry.

This method emphasizes the importance of the inquiry process as a major focus of how we utilize research and development to meet our needs.

New products should follow a formal problem solving method such as DEAL and utilize a well-defined research and development strategy in formulating the product(s) in relation to the Factors of Design.

There are two types of research.

Basic research is done to learn more about the world around us.

Applied research utilizes the process of solving actual problems.

We build upon our research through Retrieving-Describing-Experimenting data to solve problems or develop new products.

In research and development, retrieving is utilizing information that is currently accepted. The Earth revolves around the Sun is accepted as scientific fact. Therefore, we can assume that this information can be utilized this as a starting point in basic or applied research.

Describing is recording information in current situations such as standard sizes and formats required for products or systems. Ergonomics utilizes such research. Manufacturers are able to design or arrange devices, machines, or workspace so that people can interact safely and more efficiently.

Experimenting is basically trial and error research. Products and components may be tested and evaluated. Information is recorded and utilized to provide feedback for future product development. It is the control of variables.

In research and development, a set of criteria is established to determine if a problem or investigation chosen will be appropriate.

Apply Research and Development strategies “In searching for the best solution, the designer redesigns, tests, refines, and remodels again and again.

A simple and effective model for research and development, and technological problem solving, proceeds in three phases: the design phase, the construction phase, and the evaluation phase.

The design phase of technological problem solving emphasizes an engineering concept referred to as “design under constraint” — a recognition that real solutions to real problems must succeed in the face of limitations.

The construction phase of technological problem solving, involves the implementation of the designer's solutions.

The evaluation phase involves the collection of data through the observation of working solutions.