Summary: In engineering, the transition from idea to product requires that the engineer produce clear proposals demonstrating the idea's practicality and economic feasibility. Smelser describes how writing is a key element in this process. Engineers don't need to know how to write.
Cradle to gate Cradle to gate is a boundary condition associated with embodied carbon, carbon footprint and LCA studies. A study to these boundaries considers all activities starting with the extraction of materials from the earth (the cradle), their transportation, refining, processing and fabrication activities until the material or product is ready to leave the factory gate.
This post has two door hardware terms that are good to know: Tubular latch, or latch mechanism - The cylinder driven through the edge of the door with a spring loaded latch that keeps the door closed, or allows it to open.