what goes in the engineering notebook and how is it judged
What Goes in the Engineering Notebook
The engineering notebook can include the following elements:
- Expected Content: Problem Definition, Information Gathering, Brainstorming Solutions, Concept Design, System Level Design, Testing, Design Improvement, Production, Promotion, Budgeting, Planning, and Outreach .
- Team Plan: A sustainability, strategic, or business plan .
- Robot Documentation: Information on parts and materials, explanations of components, and captioned graphics (such as CAD screenshots or photos) explaining how mechanisms work .
- Engineering Process and Iterations: A narrative of the team's progress from initial unrealized ideas to final designs . Each iteration should document why a change was made, what the change was, how it was enacted, the results, and future improvements . Math should be included in these explanations to target the Think award .
- Style and Format: The notebook can be handwritten or typed, and should maintain a consistent team brand and professional tone .
How the Notebook is Judged
The engineering notebook is completely optional and is not a requirement for any award . While it was required in the past, this is no longer the case .
However, judges can still technically ask to see the notebook for more information . Additionally, teams can keep the notebook on hand in the pits as a quick reference for judges during pit interviews .
Was this right?