Engineering innovation took the spotlight in several ways at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC in Elyria in February — and that included getting engineers of tomorrow on board.
In celebration of Engineers Week 2014, Bendix hosted its first Discover Engineering event at its Elyria headquarters on Presidents Day, introducing middle school and high school students to engineering. The company is committed to inspiring the next generation of engineers and helping students unleash their creativity and innovative spirit through engineering.
Discover Engineering was open to children and grandchildren of Bendix employees, allowing students to meet Bendix engineers and learn firsthand what engineering is, and encourage them to consider engineering as a college or career choice.
Students received an overview of engineering fields, observed demonstrations, had site tours and took part in activities. There were also programs to introduce girls to engineering.
Pinewood racers
One of the interesting events for students was the pinewood derby, in which students created a race car to go down a track, propelled by gravity. The lesson for students was how to make his or her car the speediest.
Students learned that the pinewood racers reach their highest degree of potential energy at a weight of 5 ounces. The challenge was to make the car heavier with materials — such as brass fittings and tape — without going over 5 ounces.
Honors to engineers
In addition, during Engineers Week, Bendix recognized its engineers for their contributions to the company’s development and manufacture of leading-edge active safety and braking system technologies.
Among those honored were the company’s 2013 patent recipients, 51 engineers who contributed — individually or in groups — to the 50 worldwide patents granted to Bendix last year.
“Bendix is built on engineering innovation,” says Richard Beyer, Bendix vice president of engineering and R&D. “Engineers stand tall behind every one of Bendix’s commercial vehicle technologies throughout our nearly 85-year history — including the long list of groundbreaking designs that represent technological firsts in the industry.”
Engineers Week serves as an opportunity to raise public awareness and highlight the role engineers have in creating sustainable solutions that make a difference in people’s lives, Beyer says.
“For the younger generation, we help them learn firsthand what engineering is and encourage them to consider engineering as a college or career choice.”
Engineers Week, a national program marked annually during the week of George Washington’s birthday, celebrates the contributions engineers make to society and serves as a catalyst for educational outreach. For directing the nation toward technical advancements, invention and education, Washington is considered by many to be the United States’ first engineer. ●
How to reach: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, (800) 247-2725 or www.bendix.com
