Chapter 01 The Engineer and the Engineering Disciplines

GENG 107 Engineering Skills and Ethics

Chapter 1: The Engineer and the Engineering Disciplines

  • Instructor: Prof. Okan Sirin

Introduction to Engineering

  • Engineers combine knowledge of:

    • Science

    • Mathematics

    • Economics

  • Purpose of Engineering:

    • Solve technical problems faced by society

    • Convert scientific theories into practical applications

    • Address humanity's needs

  • Etymology:

    • The term "engineer" is derived from "engine," meaning to create in early English.

The Presence of Engineering in Daily Life

  • Engineering influences numerous sectors:

    • Examples of Engineering Applications: Products and services such as technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy.

Population Growth and Sustainability

  • Current World Population (as of March 2020): 7.8 billion

  • Engineering faces challenges including:

    • Increasing world population

    • Sustainability concerns

Understanding Engineering as a Profession

  • Key Questions for First-Year Engineering Students:

    • What is engineering and the role of engineers?

    • What specializations exist in engineering?

    • Is engineering the right choice for me?

    • What is the job demand for various specializations post-graduation?

Student Engagement

  • Introduction Activity: Students to share their background and choice of engineering disciplines. Key points to cover:

    • Name, Nationality, High School

    • Choice of Qatar University and Engineering Discipline

    • Aspirations post-graduation

What is Engineering?

  • Educational Resource: Video link provided for contextual understanding.

The Technology Team in Development

  • Technology development involves:

    • Team Members:

      • Scientists: Advance human knowledge; require BS, MS, PhD.

      • Engineers: Apply knowledge; require BS, MS, PhD.

      • Technologists: Address well-defined problems; require BS.

      • Technicians: Complete tasks with minimal requirements; usually 2-year degree.

      • Artisans: Skilled in trades to build as specified by engineers; high school diploma plus experience.

  • Outcomes of Effective Teamwork: Achieves bigger results compared to individual efforts.

Differentiation: Engineering Technician Vs Engineer

  • Videos: Links to comparative videos on engineers and technicians.

Responsibilities of Engineers

  • Engineers are problem solvers focused on:

    • Designing, improving, and building to benefit society.

    • Range of tasks from bridge construction to business negotiations.

Areas of Focus in Engineering Work

  1. Research Engineers: Discover new knowledge to solve problems.

  2. Development Engineers: Use research to create prototypes and structures.

  3. Design Engineers: Produce detailed designs based on research outcomes.

Additional Engineering Functions

  1. Production Engineers: Manage production schedules and materials.

  2. Testing Engineers: Evaluate product reliability and suitability.

  3. Construction Engineers: Oversee construction projects.

  4. Operations Engineers: Maintain factories and chemical plants.

  5. Sales Engineers: Leverage technical knowledge for product sales.

  6. Managing Engineers: Coordinate technology team efforts.

  7. Consulting Engineers: Provide engineering talent to companies.

  8. Teaching Engineers: Educate others in engineering fundamentals.

Importance of Calculus in Engineering

  • Definition: Calculus studies motion and change.

  • Applications:

    • Assessing wind/water effects on structures.

    • Analyzing heat and fluid dynamics.

    • Evaluating the impact of electric currents.

  • Mathematical Foundation Required:

    • Background in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

Examination of Engineering Skills

  • Self-assessment Questions:

    1. Examples of products improving daily life?

    2. Changes reshaping lifestyles?

    3. Roles of engineers?

    4. Design considerations?

    5. Importance of calculus study?

Traits of Successful Engineers

  • Key Traits Include:

    • Problem-solving mindset

    • Interpersonal and communication skills

    • Leadership abilities

    • Logical and quantitative reasoning

    • Dependability and organizational skills

    • Continued education and professional development

    • Creativity and community involvement

Engineering Disciplines Overview

  • Major Engineering Specializations:

    • Chemical Engineering

    • Civil Engineering

    • Computer Engineering

    • Electrical Engineering

    • Industrial Engineering

    • Mechanical Engineering

    • Mechatronics Engineering

Specializations in Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

  • Focus on design and testing of:

    • Aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and related systems.

Agricultural Engineering

  • Design of equipment for farming, preparation of food, and waste management.

Biomedical Engineering

  • Combines biology and engineering for health solutions; includes biomechanics and medical imaging.

Chemical Engineering

  • Involves processing liquids/gases; focuses on desalination and pollution control.

Civil Engineering

  • Design and supervise construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings.

Computer Engineering

  • Handle the design and operation of computer hardware and software systems.

Electrical Engineering

  • Development of electrical systems; includes power generation and navigational equipment.

Environmental Engineering

  • Addressing pollution and waste disposal issues.

Industrial Engineering

  • Optimizing production processes and plant design.

Mechanical Engineering

  • Focus on design and manufacturing of machinery and thermal systems.

Mining Engineering

  • Extraction and management of mineral resources.

Nuclear Engineering

  • Involves design and operation of nuclear power systems.

Petroleum Engineering

  • Focused on oil and gas discovery and production.

Engineering Technology vs. Engineering

  • Technologists: More hands-on, less theoretical than engineers.

    • Education: Often limited to BS programs with fewer advanced qualifications.

Accreditation and its Importance

  • ABET: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology

    • Ensures quality of engineering programs and readiness of graduates.

  • Evaluations Include:

    • Quality of faculty, facilities, and curriculum.

  • Importance: Validates standard of education within engineering disciplines.

Becoming a Registered Engineer in Qatar

  • Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree from an accredited program.

    • Pass the Engineering exam by the Ministry.

Conclusion: Key Questions for Reflection

  • What is the definition of engineering?

  • What are the distinctions between environmental engineering, technology, and technician roles?

  • Importance of calculus in engineering?

  • Overview of ABET and its evaluation criteria.