Statistics and Numerical Methods for Mechanical Technologists MATH 3493

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Solve a system of simultaneous linear equations using matrix inversion.
• Use a numerical scheme to differentiate a given function or time-series; for example to calculate the velocity of an object from a time-series of its displacement.
• Use a numerical integration technique (including the Trapezoid Rule and Simpson’s Rule) to evaluate a definite integral, such as in area or volume calculations and bending moment problems.
• Find the roots of a non-linear function using a numerical technique (including Newton-Raphson iteration); e.g., with application to the geometry of a three-bar mechanism.
• Use a numerical method (including Euler’s Method) to solve a first order differential equation, as required in calculations pertaining to beam loading and hydrostatic pressure.
• Prepare descriptive statistics and data presentations.
• Interpret and calculate basic quality control mechanisms such as run charts.
• Discuss the importance of random versus convenience sampling.
• Use basic probability rules for independent and mutually exclusive events. (e.g., Calculations on the reliability of a system.)
• Define the difference between discrete and continuous probability models. (e.g., Binomial versus Normal Probability Model. and solve practical situations involving probability distributions.
• Evaluate the relationship between two variables by determining the least squares line of best fit, the correlation coefficient and residual plots.

Effective as of Fall 2013