Reverse engineering toolbox for pedagogical applications

Abstract

Reverse engineering, the technique of using different tools and methodology to recreate an object or machine, is increasingly used in academia to solidify theoretical concepts as part of the Kolb learning cycle. This thesis aims to aid the use of reverse engineering as a pedagogical tool by developing a toolbox that can be used by students, and professionals alike, to properly reverse engineer a mechanical or electro-mechanical product.

The development begins with an analysis of House of Quality matrices, a design methodology tool used by the industry to relate customer needs to engineering metrics and specifications. After a consolidated list of metrics was developed, the appropriate tools to properly quantify said metrics were researched and documented. Finally, a toolbox was created, with set goals in mind, and applied in two case studies to analyze its performance.

Simultaneously, a portable dynamometer was developed, documented, and tested, with the goal of creating an inexpensive and accessible tool to measure the power output of fractional horsepower DC and AC motors.