3: Problem Analysis

Question 1

What is a simple vs complex problem? What are engineering design problems?

Answer 1

Simple problem: a well defined problem that’s straight forward to solve
Complex problem: a novel or multifaceted problem without an obvious solution approach

Engineering problems are complex problems

Question 2

What are the 4 steps in Solving an Engineering Problem?

Answer 2

1. Identify
2. Formulate
3. Solve
4. Evaluate

Question 3

Elaborate on step 1: Identify
What if this step isn’t done well?

Answer 3

Systematic Approach is necessary:
- isolate the key engineering issue
- identify known/unknown information, uncertainties
- listen to stakeholders,
- be aware of biases

IF this step isn’t done well, we risk solving the wrong problem or missing optimal solution

Question 4

Elaborate on Step 2: Formulate

Answer 4

Formulate step involves creating an appropriate model to be used in solving the problem and identifying possible solution approaches

Complex problems can be divided into simpler parts
- models can be developed for each part

Identifying key elements that must be included can be challenging and take care not to oversimplify the problem

Question 5

Elaborate on Step 3: Solve

Answer 5

4 commonly used approaches:
- Analytical Approach
- Computational methods
- Experimental methods & investigations
- Visual and graphic methods

Question 6

What is the analytical approach used in step 3: Solve?

Answer 6

in the analytical approach:
- we quantify the problem using appropriate models of physical phenomena and equations
- Using a WDM is analytical!

Question 7

What is the computational methods approach used in step 3: Solve?

Answer 7

With computational methods, we:
- generate numerical models and simulations on computers

This is used when calculations performed by an individual would be impractical or impossible

Ex/
- calculations in a spreadsheet
- use of commercial software (fluid dynamics, magnetic fields, etc.)

Question 8

What is the experimental methods and investigation approach used in step 3: Solve?

Answer 8

with Experimental Methods and Investigations we conduct physical experiments to collect data
- (may be the most effective in some situations and the only way in others)

Experimental data can complement analytical and computational methods by validating models and results

Question 9

What is the visual and graphical methods approach used in step 3: Solve?
What is it useful for?

Answer 9

Visual and graphic methods include:
- diagrams, charts, sketches, and graphs
- Useful for exploring the form-factor of a product or device
- useful for illustrating or exploring complex and complicated systems

Question 10

Elaborate on Step 4: Evaluation
What else can help in this step?

Answer 10

In Step 4, we conduct a validation of the solution:
- Are the results reasonable?
- How confident are we in the results?
- How can we increase confidence?

Experimental methods and investigation can form part of this step

• Prior knowledge and experience may help us to validate results
• Iteration may be required if there is insufficient confidence in the solution!