Solution Tree Problem Solving Procedure for Engineering Analysis Problems

Abstract

This paper presents a 10-step procedure, called the solution-tree problemsolving procedure, for solving engineering analysis problems. The core of the procedure is the development of a tree-like solution algorithm for the problem or class of problems, based on the divide-and-conquer and top-down design concepts. Illustrations are provided in the thermofluid engineering area to showcase the procedure’s applications. This approach has proved to be a veritable tool for enhancing the problem-solving and computer algorithmic skills of engineering students, eliciting their curiosity, active participation and appreciation of the taught course. It also affirms the procedural nature of many engineering professional activities, and instils in the students good ethical conduct in their engineering problem-solving effort.

Keywords: Problem-solving algorithm; engineering analysis problem;
solution tree; thermofluid; engineering education