Mathematical modelling

In the era of CAD and other modern technologies, mathematical modelling is in danger of becoming a neglected discipline. The author argues that it should be viewed as an essential learning tool with which we can understand engineering problems. At very least, the discipline of developing a mathematical equation often generates a grasp of the engineering problem. In particular, it is an excellent means of identifying key performance parameters. It gives an insight into tolerances; a computer model might indicate that something works but a very slight variation might make it fail. It is acknowledged that it can be time-consuming and expensive, though it is argued that the time is not as great as is sometimes imagined, especially as computers can be used to solve the equations