A Three-Semester Mechanical Engineering Capstone Design Sequence Based on an SAE Collegiate Design Series

Mechanical engineering students at Lawrence Technological University complete a five-credit hour capstone project: either an SAE collegiate design series (CDS) vehicle or an industrysponsored project (ISP). Students who select the SAE CDS option enroll in a three semester, three course sequence. Each team of seniors designs, builds, and competes with their vehicle at one of the SAE CDS events. Despite some strong finishes in the past, overall competition performance has recently declined and student exit interviews indicated dissatisfaction with the course sequence. This work examines a complete course sequence overhaul focused on improving student design, collaboration, and communication skills; integration of the SAE CDS events into the curriculum; and faculty advisor involvement in the classroom. Initial assessment of the proposed course modifications is performed using faculty advisor observation, student surveys, and direct assessment of student work.