Sibley School Seminars: Alison Olechowski - Capturing Computer-Aided Design Behavioral Insights from User Analytics

Description

Capturing Computer-Aided Design Behavioral Insights from User Analytics
Alison Olechowski
University of Toronto

Abstract:
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology is fundamental to modern mechanical engineering product design. Yet there is little published data and a dirth of research to systematically understand and then optimize the process of the engineer designing with CAD. I will present recent work in which my group developed and demonstrated novel frameworks for capturing and analyzing Computer-Aided Design behaviours from distributed remote participants working individually or collaboratively. In one study we discover differences in behaviours between expert and intermediate CAD users in executing an industry-realistic CAD task, and in another we analyze data from a collaborative learning design challenge with engineering students. I will then discuss implications for design, collaboration and education with CAD.

Biosketch:
Alison Olechowski, PhD, PEng, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering at the University of Toronto. She completed her PhD at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) studying engineering technology management. Dr. Olechowski completed her BSc (Engineering) at Queen’s University and her MS at MIT, both in Mechanical Engineering. Her current research focuses on engineering design; in particular, her group investigates how new technologies can best be used to improve the process and outputs of engineering design and new product development. Her lab is supported by grants from Canada’s national funding agencies, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, and industry partners including CAD users and providers.

Cornell Engineering Community