The screwdriver: A basic review on design and material selection

Abstract

Design is problem-solving and decision-making process. One of the most critical decisions is the selection of materials. Sound decisions must be performed progressively in logic and systematic fashion. Although best practice materials and selection methods is available in specific domain, a generic method is important in both engineering education and profession perspective. This paper provides an overview of design and materials selection using a generic, logic, systematic method, involving (1) performance analysis and (2) critical criteria analysis. A hand-powered screwdriver is used as a case study to make clear the inter-relationship between functions, geometries, materials, and processes in the decision making. Despite of the fact that the function and geometry of the object being discussed is simple, a comprehensive understanding of design principles, mechanics, and materials are very important in analyzing the critical criteria and optimizing the performance of design through material selection.