Engineering Fundamentals and Problem Solving, 6e Chapter 4 Engineering Solutions

Chapter Objectives Recognize the importance of engineering problem analysis Recall and explain the engineering method Apply general guidelines for problem-solving presentation and solution documentation Develop an ability to solve and present simple or complex problems in an orderly, logical, and systematic way

Problem Solving 1. The professional engineer is expected to: Approach Analyze and Solve a range of technical problems. 2. The problems can be: Single-solution, reasonably simple problems or Extremely complex, open-ended problems 3. Problem solving is a combination of experience, knowledge, process, and art.

Problem Analysis Questions to consider when solving problems: How important is the answer? What degree of accuracy is needed? How much time and what resources are available? What theory do you intend to use?

Problem Analysis More questions to consider when solving problems: Is the theory state of the art? Is the theory valid for this application? Do you currently understand the theory, or must you review and learn it? Can you simplify without sacrificing needed accuracy?

Problem Solving In an actual situation, answers may depend on Amount of data available Amount of data that must be collected Sophistication of equipment Accuracy of the data Number of people assisting Many other factors. Complex problems require computer support Spreadsheet Math analysis program.

The Engineering Method Steps in the Engineering Method Recognize and understand the problem Accumulate data and verify accuracy Select the appropriate theory or principle Make necessary assumptions Solve the problem Verify and check results

Problem Presentation Problem statement Diagram Theory Assumptions Solution steps Identify results and verify accuracy Discussion/Conclusion

Common Problem Layout

More Than One Page

Freehand Guidelines Use engineering problem solving paper Complete top headings Use an appropriate lead hardness Use either vertical or slant letters (not mixed) Spell words correctly Make your work easy to follow Separate problem sets clearly Make diagram clear and understandable Use proper symbols of units

Conclusions The layout of a problem solution follows the steps of the engineering method. Present the solution method and the final solution so that any reader can readily understand all the aspects. For formal reports, proposals, or presentations, a computer- generated presentation is the correct approach.