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

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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?

5. 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?

6. 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.

7. 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

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

9. Common Problem Layout

10. More Than One Page

11. 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

12. 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.