ENGR-UH 1000 - Lecture 1: Course Introduction and Computer-Based Problem Solving

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from ENGR-UH 1000 Lecture 1 on engineering definitions, the computer-based problem-solving workflow, flowcharts, and programming tools.

Engineering

The systematic and creative process of applying scientific, mathematical, technological, and engineering knowledge to analyze problems and design solutions that address human needs within real-world constraints.

Engineering Design

A systematic, intelligent process for generating, evaluating, and specifying devices, systems, or processes that meet users' needs while satisfying constraints.

Computer Programming

The process of developing a sequence of instructions that enables a computer to solve a problem.

Algorithm

The logical flow that a computer program should follow, clearly defining the input, processing, and output stages.

Pseudocode

An informal, structured text tool used to outline and present an algorithm step-by-step prior to writing actual code.

Flowchart

A visual tool that uses standard geometric shapes to create and present the step-by-step logical flow of an algorithm.

Oval (in Flowcharts)

The basic flowchart shape used to denote start and end commands.

Parallelogram (in Flowcharts)

The basic flowchart shape used to denote input and output operations.

Rectangle (in Flowcharts)

The basic flowchart shape used to denote processing operations.

Debugging

The process during compilation and execution of resolving syntax errors and verifying that code produces correct results against pre-defined test cases.

ECPD Definition of Engineering

The creative application of scientific principles to design or develop structures, machines, apparatus, or manufacturing processes, or works utilizing them singly or in combination; or to construct or operate the same with full cognizance of their design; or to forecast their behavior under specific operating conditions.

Manual Calculation vs. Computational Simulation

Manual calculation is feasible for problems with few unknowns, simple geometry, and a single load case, but becomes prohibitive as complexity grows; computational simulation handles complex geometry, thousands of components, multiple load combinations, design iterations, and extensive safety verification.

Step 1: Real-world Engineering Problem

The initial step in computer-based problem solving, which involves identifying a real-world need or challenge.

Step 2: Understand the Problem

The second step in computer-based problem solving, which involves analyzing requirements, knowns, unknowns, and constraints.

Step 3: Develop an Algorithm

The third step in computer-based problem solving, which involves creating a step-by-step logical plan using tools like pseudocode and flowcharts.

Step 4: Write a Program (C++)

The fourth step in computer-based problem solving, which involves translating the developed algorithm into programming code such as C++.

Step 5: Compile & Run

The fifth step in computer-based problem solving, where the compiler checks the code for errors and executes it.

Step 6: Computer Executes Instructions

The sixth step in computer-based problem solving, where the computer processes the instructions specified by the compiled program.

Step 7: Results (Solution)

The final step in computer-based problem solving, producing a useful output that solves the engineering problem.