Engineering Chapter 3: Problem Solving I

Course Outcomes

• A1: Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between engineering and several areas of knowledge (science, technology, economy, and ethics).
• A2: Demonstrate specialized knowledge about engineering as a profession.
• B1: Demonstrate the ability to apply extensive understanding to identify key terms from different engineering majors.
• B2: Demonstrate the ability to apply extensive understanding to describe or recognize one or more aspects of the evolution of engineering over history.
• C1: Demonstrate the ability to use a broad range of cognitive skills to solve a simple optimization problem.
• C2: Demonstrate the ability to use advanced information effectively in solving engineering problems.
• D1: Demonstrate the ability to use own initiative to undertake self-development methods and processes as engineers.

Solving Problems

• Engineers face a wide range of technical problems in their work, such as:
  • Creating new products.
  • Modifying a product by using less material.
  • Reducing the cost of production.
  • Reducing air pollution in a city.
  • Finding how many days we need to construct a building.

Optimum Solution

• When there are different possible solutions, choose the one that has the maximum or minimum value of an important quantity.
• If the quantity is favorable, we want it maximum (e.g., strength).
• If the quantity is unfavorable, we want it minimum (e.g., cost).
• The solution we choose by making a quantity maximum or minimum is called the optimum solution.
• Finding the best solution from a number of possible solutions is called optimization.

Examples of Optimization

• Example: If you have a thread (yarn) of length 20 cm and want to make a rectangle or square by it, there are multiple possible solutions, but which one is the optimum solution?
• The solution with the maximum area is the optimum solution.

5 Steps to Solve Engineering Problems

• 1. Define the problem.
• 2. Generate more than one solution.
• 3. Select the optimum solution.
• 4. Implement the solution.
• 5. Evaluate the solution.