In: Math
INTRODUCTION TO CALCULUS - Calculus is defined as the study of how things change. Calculus incorporates two major branches. Differential focuses on the rate of change between a slope and a curve. Integral focuses on the quantities accumulated in the areas located under the curve and between the curves.
INTRODUCTION TO MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Engineering can be described as applying principles and problem-solving techniques ranging from design to manufacturing to an object. Mechanical engineering technology encompasses a multitude of areas including fluid mechanics, energy, dynamics, design, manufacturing, modeling, simulation, robotics etc HOW DO MECHANICAL ENGINEER USE THE CALCULUS -
Some mechanical technicians find themselves using calculus in their daily routine practices during a normal work day. Others rely on computer-based programs which heavily incorporate calculus. No matter which way you use it, calculus will be involved in almost every aspect of your day-to-day duties.
A career in mechanical engineering technology focuses on creating new technology which serves to meet the needs of humans. Not only will you focus on solving the problems we face today, but you will strive to create solutions for problems that might arise in the future. Industries such as health care, transportation, climate change, and energy rely heavily on mechanical technicians.
As a mechanical technician, you will be required to combine your skills with knowledge and creativity in order bring an idea to life and make it a reality. Your knowledge of calculus helps transform an idea into life and ensure that it works properly to meet the needs of consumers.
When and how often you use the skills you acquire in calculus will depend largely on your job title as a mechanical technician. Some use their skills when calculating surface area. Complex objects surface area must be computed to determine forces which will cause friction.
Mechanical technicians who work with and design pumps use their calculus skills every day. They must design the pump to properly work with the required flow rate necessary.
Many examples of the use of calculus are found in mechanical engineering, such as computing the surface area of complex objects to determine frictional forces, designing a pump according to flow rate and head, and calculating the power provided by a battery system. Newton's law of cooling is a governing differential equation in HVAC design that requires integration to solve.