Not long ago, I was talking to a college student studying physics. He lamented how difficult it was for him to keep up with Asian students in his classes at UCLA. We talked about how the tests were set up, how mathematics was taught and I showed him some engineering drawings that I had produced and explained why physics was so important and why it was so important to understand the concepts before setting up the mathematical equations and understanding. exactly what the problem really was, so that the answers obtained were not only correct, but also relevant. Okay, let’s talk, shall we?
Our conversation progressed to digital design and CAD CAM software, along with aerospace innovations. I discussed some of the challenges with the software and things that were not known or the software was not configured for. However, a good mathematician with a decent understanding of physics could solve the problem by hand in plenty of time without having to use CAD CAM software. Although the equations would get longer and longer as the number of parameters increases, it is still possible: just knowing this fact and understanding how everything works helps to think outside the box without connecting each component or new prototype design. in the Formula of CAD CAM software.
While it is true that the more you use such design software the better you get, and the things you inherently know before plugging in a new design or changing a parameter, this does not negate the fact that by knowing the mathematical formulas and relationships involved you a large amount of work can be completed prior to publishing any particular design in the software. The great thing about this software is that you can make changes on the fly, but you’ll be much better off understanding the math, the formulas, and what the software does. That’s worth more than good grades in math, engineering, or physics class.
Unfortunately, I think that a good number of students never learn these things correctly and much of their success in design is unpredictable. Sure, they can build something that looks statistically correct, or very nice on the innovation spectrum, but in engineering, it’s only good if it works. That’s why I think you have to work hard to study and understand the math of how all this great technology works, and if necessary, be able to solve the problem by building your own equations without the software. Consider all of this and think about it.
