1st Edition

Problem Solving for Engineers

By David G. Carmichael Copyright 2013
    440 Pages 136 B/W Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    440 Pages
    by CRC Press

    Whatever their discipline, engineers are routinely called upon to develop solutions to all kinds of problems. To do so effectively, they need a systematic and disciplined approach that considers a range of alternatives, taking into account all relevant factors, before selecting the best solution. In Problem Solving for Engineers, David Carmichael demonstrates just such an approach involving problem definition, generation of alternative solutions, and, ultimately, the analysis and selection of a preferred solution.

    David Carmichael introduces the fundamental concepts needed to think systematically and undertake methodical problem solving. He argues that the most rational way to develop a framework for problem solving is by using a systems studies viewpoint. He then outlines systems methodology, modeling, and the various configurations for analysis, synthesis, and investigation. Building on this, the book details a systematic process for problem solving and demonstrates how problem solving and decision making lie within a systems synthesis configuration.

    Carefully designed as a self-learning resource, the book contains exercises throughout that reinforce the material and encourage readers to think and apply the concepts. It covers decision making in the presence of uncertainty and multiple criteria, including that involving sustainability with its blend of economic, social, and environmental considerations. It also characterizes and tackles the specific problem solving of management, planning, and design. The book provides, for the first time, a rational framework for problem solving with an engineering orientation.

    Systems Methodology
    Introduction
    Terminology
    Origin
    System
    Fundamental Variables
    Subsystems
    Environment
    System Boundary
    System and Behavior Characterization

    Models and Modeling
    Introduction
    Formalism
    Hierarchical Multilevel Systems
    Staged Systems
    Model Development
    Classification
    System Model Terminology

    Some Common System Models
    Introduction
    Block Diagrams
    Black Box
    State Equation Models
    Other Forms

    Fundamental Configurations Relating to Systems
    Introduction
    Analysis
    Synthesis
    Investigation
    Controllability and Observability

    The Synthesis Configuration
    Introduction
    Conversion to Iterative Analysis
    Optimal Form of Synthesis
    Design Examples
    Optimization Techniques
    Project Planning
    Management
    Risk Management
    Work Study
    Value Management
    Constructability

    The Investigation Configuration
    Introduction
    Black and Grey Boxes
    System Response/Output
    Least Squares Approach
    Forecast Modeling
    Dynamic Systems

    Systematic General Problem Solving
    Introduction
    Definition
    Objectives and Constraints Statement
    Alternatives Generation
    Analysis and Evaluation
    Selection

    Creativity
    Introduction
    Creative Process
    Measuring Creativity
    Types of Creativity
    Stimulating Creativity
    Creativity and Organizations

    General Problem Solving with Groups
    Introduction
    Participants
    Facilitation
    Problem-Solving Steps
    Groups versus Individuals

    Decision Making with Multiple Objectives
    Introduction
    Approaches and Examples
    Collective Decision Making

    Optimization
    Introduction
    Conventional Design
    Components of Optimization
    Standard Forms
    Elementary Optimization
    Linear Optimization
    Nonlinear Programming
    Other Optimization Forms

    Decision Approaches and Tools
    Introduction
    Underlying Framework
    Ranking Payoffs
    Decisions with Competition or Conflict
    Decision Trees
    Bayes Theorem and Additional Information
    Utility

    Appendix A: Sensitivity
    Appendix B: Surveys
    Appendix C: Sampling
    Appendix D: Measurement and Scales
    Bibliography
    Index

    Biography

    David G. Carmichael

    "Whatever their discipline, engineers are routinely called upon to develop solutions to all kinds of problems. To do so effectively, they need a systematic and disciplined approach that considers a range of alternatives, taking into account all relevant factors, before selecting the best solution. … David Carmichael demonstrates just such an approach involving problem definition, generation of alternative solutions, and, ultimately, the analysis and selection of a preferred solution. … The book provides, for the first time, a rational framework for problem solving with an engineering orientation."
    —BASE

    "Problem solving and systems are given a very broad perspective, encompassing key engineering tasks such as design, investigation, decision making and optimization. ...the examples and exercises make it an easy-to-read book. The exercises are not merely drill type ones, but also ones that make the reader think – this is to be commended..."
    ––Priyan Dias, Senior Professor, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Associate Editor, Civil Engineering & Environmental Systems