The trend of adding unnecessary smart features to everyday products is criticized, highlighting the neglect of improving core functionalities in engineering.
Examples are provided, such as car manufacturers adding large touchscreens on dashboards and screens on bonnets, overlooking basic needs like quieter wipers and better indicator functionality.
The shift towards smart technology is observed in industries like watchmaking, kitchen appliances, and even footwear, with an emphasis on screens and connectivity over meaningful improvements.
Mechanical engineers are pressured to incorporate AI into projects rather than focusing on enhancing traditional engineering aspects, leading to a talent imbalance.
The imbalance in talent allocation towards software engineering over core disciplines like mechanical and electrical engineering is highlighted, impacting innovation in physical products.
An emphasis is placed on the need for a balance between software and traditional engineering disciplines to create truly innovative solutions that address real-world problems effectively.
The importance of integrating different engineering fields for holistic innovation is stressed, pointing out successful examples like SpaceX uniting various disciplines for groundbreaking results.
A call is made for reconnecting with the essence of engineering excellence, focusing on practical problem-solving rather than just adding superficial smart features to products.
The article advocates for a collaborative approach where mechanical, software, and materials experts work together seamlessly to deliver meaningful innovations that blend old-school engineering with modern technology.
The concept of an 'ultimate engineering remix' is proposed, urging a balance between engineering fundamentals and digital advancements to create products that excel in both functionality and innovation.
The need for a shift towards genuine engineering excellence, emphasizing real problem-solving and elegant design over superfluous smart features, is underscored in the article.