Sinopsis
Engineers solve real-world problems using scientific principles from disciplines that include computer science, mathematics, physics, biology, and chemistry. It is this variety of subjects, and the challenge of real problems, that makes engineering so interesting and so rewarding. In this section, we present some of the outstanding engineering achievements of recent years. We also consider some of the nontechnical skills and capabilities needed by the engineers of the twenty-first century.
Recent Engineering Achievements
Since the development of the computer in the late 1950s, a number of significant engineering achievements have occurred. In 1989, the National Academy of Engineering selected the 10 engineering achievements that it considered to be the most important accomplishments during the previous 25 years. These achievements illustrate the multidisciplinary nature of engineering and demonstrate how engineering has improved our lives and expanded the possibilities for the future while providing a wide variety of interesting and challenging careers. We now briefly discuss these 10 achievements.
The development of the microprocessor, a tiny computer smaller than a postage stamp, is one of the top engineering achievements of the last 25 years. Microprocessors are used in electronic equipment, household appliances, toys, and games, as well as in automobiles, aircraft, and space shuttles, because they provide powerful yet inexpensive computing capabilities. Microprocessors also provide the computing power inside calculators and smart phones.
Several of the top 10 achievements relate to the exploration of space. The moon landing was probably the most complex and ambitious engineering project ever attempted. Major breakthroughs were required in the design of the Apollo spacecraft, the lunar lander, and the three-stage Saturn V rocket. Even the design of the spacesuit was a major engineering project that resulted in a system that included a three-piece suit and backpack, which together weighed 190 pounds. The computer played a key role not only in the design of the various systems, but also in the communications required during an individual moon flight. A single flight required the coordination of over 450 people in the launch control center and over 7000 others on nine ships, in 54 aircraft, and at stations located around the earth.
The space program also provided much of the impetus for the development of application satellites that are used to provide weather information, relay communication signals, map uncharted terrain, and provide environmental updates on the composition of the atmosphere. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a constellation of 24 satellites that broadcasts position, velocity, and time information worldwide. GPS receivers measure the time it takes for signals to travel from the GPS satellite to the receiver. Using information received from four satellites, a microprocessor in the receiver can determine very precise measurements of the receiver’s location; its accuracy varies from a few meters to centimeters, depending on the computation techniques used.
Another of the top engineering achievements recognizes the contributions of computeraided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM). CAD/CAM has generated a new industrial revolution by increasing the speed and efficiency of many types of manufacturing processes. CAD allows the design to be done using the computer, which then produces the final schematics, parts lists, and computer simulation results. CAM uses design results to control machinery or industrial robots to manufacture, assemble, and move components.
Content
- Engineering Problem Solving
- Simple C Programs
- Control Structures and Data Files
- Modular Programming with Functions
- Arrays and Matrices
- Programming with Pointers
- Programming with Structures
- An Introduction to C++
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