Choosing a Path in Engineering: Balancing Design and Fundamentals

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In summary: Math and Physics help you understand how things work, they don't make the designs. You learn how to make a design by learning the basics.
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jactrigga
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Hi, I'd like to know if any engineers out there use what they've been taught at university or is it the fundamentals that are important? I neither hate nor love physics/maths but I love design...how does that work out if i was to chose a path in engineering?
 
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  • #2
I probably used 10% of my degree when working in design. That's not to say the rest wasn't needed. You need to be able to understand the fundamentals to be aware of what effects you might be dealing with. Besides, in this day and age you won't get an engineering design job straight out of school without having a good engineering degree. Treat maths and physics as tools you can use to realize your designs, and you won't go far wrong.
 
  • #3
In my experience, the higher end learning is needed to refine and optimize designs. To get a rough design concept usually doesn't need too much in the way of analysis. That is what most classes in engineering are. Analysis of a given system/thing.

One thing I will also say is that there is a lot of extra learning involved with design that is not taught in colleges.
 
  • #4
Lots of engineers do not apply the math and Physics they should have learned in college to their designs...
It is obvious when it comes to either make them work or trying to keep them working. It takes a lot of experience and talent to know how to apply the fundamentals in creating a design. There are a LOT more design engineers then there are GOOD design engineers.

Much of what is learned in an undergrad degree only applies APPROXIMATELY to the real world, the trick is to learn what the approximations mean and how to fudge them to get to the real world.
 
  • #5
One thing that never ceases to amaze me is how seemingly simple processes or designs can be terribly complex to implement. It seems that entire concepts require little more than the back of a napkin, whereas a proper design for the same may keep you busy for years or even decades. In the end it all comes down to good physics and engineering; and lots of it.

Also, you learn the fundamentals while attending the university. Without the education you will probably never get past napkins.
 

FAQ: Choosing a Path in Engineering: Balancing Design and Fundamentals

What is the main difference between design and math/physics?

Design is a creative process that involves problem-solving and creating visual or functional solutions, while math/physics is a branch of science that uses mathematical and scientific principles to understand and explain the natural world.

Can design and math/physics be used together?

Yes, design and math/physics often intersect and can complement each other. Many design fields, such as architecture, engineering, and product design, require a strong understanding of math and physics principles.

Which field, design or math/physics, is more important in the scientific community?

Both design and math/physics are important in the scientific community, as they serve different purposes. Design helps to communicate complex ideas and data visually, while math/physics provides the underlying principles and theories that explain natural phenomena.

Is one field, design or math/physics, more subjective than the other?

Design can be more subjective, as it involves creativity and personal interpretation. Math/physics, on the other hand, is based on concrete principles and laws that are not subject to personal opinions.

Can someone be good at both design and math/physics?

Yes, many people possess skills and interests in both design and math/physics. While they may require different ways of thinking, both fields require problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which can overlap and be developed simultaneously.

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