Results from a number of studies indicate that the type of light generated by the reflection on the surface of different types of surfaces can influence the spatial visualization ability; however, research provides inconsistent results. Considering this, a quasi-experimental study was conducted to identify the existence of statistically…

Recent developments in Virtual Reality (VR) technology has prompted the manufacturing industry and software vendors to investigate VR's potential for process enhancement. In this paper, we present a study to investigate whether using VR could reduce an individual's cognitive workload during the process of programming an industrial robot. The…

Several theorists believe that different types of visual cues influence cognition and behavior through learned associations; however, research provides inconsistent results. Considering this, a quasi-experimental study was done to determine if there are significant positive effects of visual cues (color blue) and to identify if a positive increase…

Students who successfully pass professional certification exams while in school are often targeted first by industry for internships and entry level positions. Over the last decade, leading industry suppliers of computer-aided design (CAD) software have developed and launched certification exams for many of their product offerings. Some have also…

Students often have difficulty grasping the principles of dimensional tolerances and frequently fail to recognize that dimensioning practice has a significant impact on the tolerance of part features. This observation may be attributed to several factors, not the least of which are changes in prior student education and life experiences and…

Students in introductory engineering graphics courses at North Carolina State University (NCSU) were asked to complete surveys to help educators and administrators understand their attitudes toward learning and their motivation to learn. Analyses of the completed surveys provided the Graphic Communications Program at NCSU with an understanding of…

Studies the effectiveness of adding coordinate axes to mental rotations tasks. Assesses the effect of the coordinate axes, the effect of pretest sensitization, and interaction between the pretest and posttest conditions. (Author/CCM)

Uses Shneiderman's Object-Action Interface model along with the engineering design process as a framework for understanding software interface elements. Provides an educational framework from which instructional materials can be developed. (Author/CCM)

Proposes a simple approach for including exercises into the freshman level classroom to help first and second semester students approach and solve problems in novel and inventive ways. (Author/CCM)

This paper outlines the work in progress undertaken by the School of Engineering Technology faculty to identify, assess, and develop a course to address the depth and breadth of drafting/plan preparation and plan reading skills required by the various engineering technology programs offered at Youngstown State University. The methodology used to…

Offers a method for interactive design of objects on a computer. Outlines a method which allows the designer to interact with orthogonal views to construct a three dimensional model of an arbitrary shape. Presents an algorithm based on the Bezier curves to efficiently create smooth curves and surfaces. (CW)

Presents the results of statistical analyses and interpretations of data obtained from students in two engineering fundamentals courses on an attitudinal survey. Indicates positive and significant improvement in student attitudes toward their own drawing abilities and the importance of drawing in their lives and careers. (CW)

Advances four propositions in an effort to provide a frame of reference for a new generation of interactive engineering graphics scholars. Suggests the integration of traditional engineering graphics with new production tools such as computer-aided design drafting. Proposes that graphics problem-solving educational opportunities be maximized. (CW)

Demonstrates one method for finding parallel tangents to a cylinder based on geometric properties of the three dimensional representation of the cylinders. Uses rotational transformations to obtain a three dimensional view. Provides a starting point for those studying geometric methods as a lead into computer assisted drafting. (CW)

Explores several concepts in computer assisted design/computer assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Defines, evaluates, reviews and compares advanced computer-aided geometric modeling and analysis techniques. Presents the results of a survey to establish the capabilities of minicomputer based-systems with the CAD/CAM packages evaluated. (CW)