Spatial visualization for development of visual thinking and cognitive abilities among mechanical engineering students through tool design ideation

Abstract

With the exposure of the mechanical engineering undergraduate students to the concepts of spatial visualization, this work assesses the effect of spatial visualization skills on the visual thinking abilities. Influence of spatial visualization on visual thinking and cognitive abilities like reasoning, abstract thinking, planning, comprehension of complex ideas, quick learning and learning from experience, is analysed through FMEA (failure modes and effects analysis). The RPNs (risk-priority-numbers) have been calculated and priority is set for proposing the corrective actions. Further to this, case studies in tool design have been picked for exhibition of spatial visualization skill set. Influence of tool design on visual thinking capability of the students is understood through various case-studies. Thus, tool, die and mold design ideation is used as a platform for the proposing improvements in visual thinking and cognitive abilities among mechanical engineering students.