Engineering project

Every engineer has a method that they like to follow when designing, testing and evaluating solutions for their engineering project. But in this blog I want to show you how I go about sketching an idea (this one is for a home project) then converting that into a model to be 3D printed to be accessed and iterated on.

Why is sketching such an effective tool for communication for engineers?

Because a simple sketch can break down complex ideas, align teams, and transcend language barriers—all without a single word being spoken.

Sketching is the universal language of engineers, enabling seamless communication across professions. It requires no translation, conveys intricate concepts with clarity, and accelerates problem-solving.

Whether brainstorming a new design, troubleshooting an issue, or presenting an idea, a well-drawn sketch is often more powerful than a thousand words.

5 Tips for Clear and Precise Engineering Sketches:

• Use Simple, Clean Lines – Avoid clutter and keep sketches bold and distinct.
• Label Key Features – Dimensions and annotations add clarity.
• Maintain Proportions – Relative sizing helps communicate intent.
• Use Standard Symbols – Recognized conventions improve understanding.
• Organize Your Layout – Logical arrangements make sketches easy to follow.

5 Essential Resources to Improve Your Sketching:

• BS 8888 – The UK standard for technical documentation.
• Third-Angle Projection – The preferred method for technical drawings.
• ISO 128 – Global best practices for technical sketches.
• GD&T Standards – Essential for defining precise tolerances.
• “The Ref” – A must-have reference book for engineers.

Mastering hand sketching doesn’t take much effort, but it can make a huge difference in how effectively you communicate your ideas.

Why is CAD such a game-changer for engineers?

Because it takes ideas from rough sketches to fully functional digital models—ready to be tested, simulated, and optimized before a single part is made.

CAD is the engineer’s tool of choice, acting as an all-in-one solution: calculator, simulator, CAM, physics engine, and more. What once required an entire team can now be achieved by just a few, allowing engineers to focus on solving bigger challenges that drive innovation.

5 Key Benefits of Using CAD:

• Speed & Efficiency – Design iterations are faster and more precise.
• Simulation & Testing – Validate designs before manufacturing.
• Collaboration – Share and edit models in real time.
• Automation & Integration – CAD links with CAM, FEA, and other tools.
• Resource Optimization – Engineers spend less time drafting and more time innovating.

5 Essential CAD Resources for Engineers:

• AutoCAD & SolidWorks sites – Industry-standard design tools.
• CADTutor – Free tutorials, tips, and resources for learning CAD.
• Instructables & GrabCAD – Community-driven projects with downloadable CAD files and instructions.
• Free AutoCAD Courses on Udemy – Learn CAD skills at no cost.
• Lars Christensen YouTube Channel – Excellent tutorials on CAD, CAM, and engineering workflows.

From concept to production, CAD empowers engineers to design faster, test smarter, and innovate better.

How has 3D printing revolutionized an engineering project?

It has unlocked a level of innovation that was unimaginable 15 years ago.

Engineers love to create, and 3D printing empowers them to design, print, and test prototypes within hours.

This rapid iteration accelerates problem-solving, encouraging engineers to fail fast, learn quickly, and refine ideas more efficiently within an engineering project. What once took weeks or months can now be achieved in a single day—fuelling breakthroughs across industries.

5 Key Benefits of 3D Printing for Engineers:

• Rapid Prototyping – Bring ideas to life faster than ever.
• Cost-Effective Development – Reduce waste and expensive tooling.
• Complex Geometries – Manufacture intricate designs impossible with traditional methods.
• Customization & Flexibility – Adapt designs on the fly.
• Material Innovation – Explore metals, composites, and biocompatible materials.

5 Essential 3D Printing Resources for Engineers:

• Thingiverse & Printables – Free 3D models for inspiration and learning.
• Fusion 360 & FreeCAD – Powerful software for designing 3D-printed parts.
• All3DP – News, reviews, and guides on 3D printing.
• MIT OpenCourseWare – Additive Manufacturing – Free courses on advanced 3D printing techniques.
• CNC Kitchen YouTube Channel – Engineering-focused 3D printing experiments and insights.

From aerospace to healthcare, 3D printing is transforming the way we innovate.

Thoughts on this engineering project.

This was a simple project, but one that uses all the skills and practises that a design engineer (or any) would take into account (probably not material selection and tolerance stacking) but enough to get a prototype made to test their assumptions and measurements against, later simulation and those other aspects can be addressed.

In this project, I sketched an outline after measuring (twice) and converted that into a model to be 3D printed and tested. The first test piece was only 5mm thick so the profile could be tested then adjusted.

After iteration the finish part can be created, once that’s done I’ll post the final design, but iteration and testing are part of the design process.

So, that’s my process, how about you, have you used this method or something similar when putting an idea together?

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