STEP 1. State the Problem … or Define the Project

The problem statement is very important. It gives the basis from which to launch your whole project and defines the performance requirements for the finished project. Engineers often refer to this step as completing “half the battle”. Once a problem, or project, can be defined, it can be clarified and worked through. A trailer that dangles as an idea in your imagination can never be manifested into something useful.

So how do we turn our “ideas” into a problem statement? Start by putting your thoughts on paper-whatever those thoughts are. This doesn’t mean talking about them with all your buddies—that can waste precious energy. It means getting out a pad of paper and starting to write. If you enjoy the pad, paper and pencil you’re using you’ll be able to sit in one place long enough to really think things out. Having the correct drawing or writing tools will turn those “ideas” into something real on paper. Writing things down provides a starting point for organization. Some thoughts you might include regarding your trailer are:

1. Cargo dimensions & weight;
2. Tow vehicle size & specifications, horsepower, wheelbase, rear overhang;
3. A list of places you might take your trailer;
4. The miles you intend to tow your trailer;
5. A list of tasks your trailer may be called upon to perform;
6. Some sketches of what you think might work;
7. The storage space available for your trailer.

From these … and a few more facts, you can put together what is called “A Problem Statement” which in reality is a definition of your project. The word “problem” is used because it’s what we used in school and it tends to put you in the right frame of mind to analyze all aspects and options. This problem statement might include the trailer’s primary use, its auxiliary use and whether it is to be light weight to save gas or extra heavy duty to withstand abuse. Below is an example statement.

Sample Problem — Hauling boxes

1. Primary use – hauling boxes filled with books
2. Cargo weight: 24 boxes @ 60-lbs each = 1440-Ibs.
3. Cargo dimensions: each box is 12″x 17″x 36″ high
4. Distance travelled: 30 miles x 2 trips per week = 60 miles/week = 6240 miles/year.
5. Trailer doesn’t need a cover in sunny weather but provisions for a canvas cover would be nice.
6. Trailer cannot weigh more than 550 pounds since the tow vehicle specifications recommend a maximum trailer weight of 2000 pounds.
7. Want to be able to use the trailer on week-ends for recreation—this will increase the mileage by about 5000 miles/year.