Engineering Chapter 3: Problem Solving I

Study Notes

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.

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.

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.