El Boletín del ejército (Madrid) (1843-10-07 00:00:00), página 10

THE USE OF THE ELECTRONIC COMPUTER IN THE SOLUTION OF ENGINEERING PROBLEMS

by

J. H. L. DAVIS

ABSTRACT

The use of the electronic computer in the solution of engineering problems is discussed. The principles of operation of the computer are explained and the types of problems which can be solved by means of the computer are described. The advantages and disadvantages of using the computer are considered.

INTRODUCTION

The electronic computer has become an important tool in the solution of engineering problems. It is capable of performing complex calculations rapidly and accurately, and can be used to solve problems which would be impractical or impossible to solve by hand methods. This paper discusses the use of the computer in the solution of engineering problems, and considers the principles of operation of the computer, the types of problems which can be solved by means of the computer, and the advantages and disadvantages of using the computer.

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

The electronic computer consists of a number of interconnected components, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory, input/output devices, and power supply. The CPU contains the logic circuitry which controls the operation of the computer, and performs the arithmetic and logical operations required to solve the problem. The memory stores the data and instructions which are used by the CPU, and provides temporary storage for intermediate results. Input/output devices allow data to be entered into the computer and results to be displayed or printed out.

TYPES OF PROBLEMS

The computer can be used to solve a wide variety of engineering problems, including:

1. Structural analysis: The computer can be used to analyze the behavior of structures under various loading conditions, and to determine the stresses and deflections at critical points.

2. Fluid mechanics: The computer can be used to solve problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and mass transfer.

3. Electrical engineering: The computer can be used to analyze electrical circuits, design filters and amplifiers, and simulate the behavior of electrical systems.

4. Mechanical engineering: The computer can be used to analyze the behavior of mechanical systems, such as gears, cams, and linkages.

5. Optimization: The computer can be used to find the optimal solution to a problem, such as the minimum weight structure or the maximum efficiency engine.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

The main advantage of using the computer in the solution of engineering problems is its speed and accuracy. The computer can perform complex calculations much faster than a human, and can be programmed to make accurate and consistent results. Another advantage is the ability of the computer to handle large amounts of data and to store intermediate results for later use.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using the computer. The cost of the computer and its peripherals can be high, and the initial investment may not be justified for small problems. Additionally, the computer requires specialized knowledge and training to operate effectively, and the results obtained must be interpreted carefully to ensure their accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

The electronic computer has become an important tool in the solution of engineering problems. It can be used to solve a wide variety of problems quickly and accurately, and can provide valuable insights into the behavior of complex systems. However, the computer is not a substitute for human judgment and experience, and the results obtained must be interpreted carefully to ensure their accuracy.