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Department of Mechanical Engineering

Industry/University Cooperative Project Center

Project Stages

1. Project Selection

Sponsors select a student team after reviewing one-page project proposals submitted by one or more teams.

2. Specifications and Concepts

Student teams meet with faculty and industrial mentors to ensure a full understanding of the problem.

3. Concept Selection, Analysis and Design

Teams select a course of action after appropriate theoretical, manufacturing and specification analyses. The initial design work is completed and reviewed by faculty and industry mentors.

4. Fabrication/ Prototype Assembly

Fabrication of parts and assembly of first prototype may be done in the ITLL Lab, the Durning Lab or at the sponsoring company.

5. Comprehensive Design Review

A second design review with the faculty and industry mentors establishes final direction of the project.

6. Initial Testing and Redesign

The prototype is tested to evaluate the performance relative to specifications.

Some redesign and retest will be completed before the end of the first term.

7. Theoretical Analysis

Relevant analyses are performed to improve the functionality and reliability of the design.

8. Fabrication/Test/Redesign/Retest

The second semester is spent creating a fully tested and satisfactorily operating product.

9. Operations Manual/Final Report

The student team compiles drawings, instructions for assembly and maintenance, and other data necessary for easy duplication and maintenance of the hardware.

10. Final Presentation

Student team makes a final presentation to the sponsoring company.

11. Technology Transfer

The project may be further transferred to sponsoring company via the hire (intern or permanent) of one or more student team members.