MODULE 1: ROLE OF STATISTICS IN

ENGINEERING

Engr. A. CUH-ING
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 MODULE 1: ROLE OF STATISTICS
IN ENGINEERING
This aims to explain engineering problem solving process and describe the application
of statistics in the process. Also, it explains the three methods of data collection:
retrospective study, observational study, and designed experiment. As well as to
distinguish between enumerative and analytical studies, and explain the difference
between mechanistic and empirical models.

By the end of this module, the student should be able to:

TLO 1: Identify the methods of data collection, planning and conducting surveys and
experiments

Think of 5 things that come to mind when you hear the word STATISTICS.

Read: Probability (pp. 1-14)

Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers (3rd Edition) by Montgomery, D. and
Runger, G.

THE ENGINEERING METHOD AND STATISTICAL THINKING

Engineering Problem Solving Process

Engineers develop practical solutions and techniques for engineering

problems by applying scientific principles and methodologies. Existing
systems are improved and/or new systems are introduced by the
engineering approach for better harmony between humans,
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 systems, and environments.

In general, the engineering problem solving process includes the following steps:

1. Problem definition: Describe the problem to solve.

2. Factor identification: Identify primary factors which cause the problem.

3. Model (hypothesis) suggestion: Propose a model (hypothesis) that explains the

relationship between the problem and factors.

4. Experiment: Design and run an experiment to test the tentative model.

5. Analysis: Analyze data collected in the experiment.

6. Model modification: Refine the tentative model.

7. Model validation: Validate the engineering model by a follow-up experiment.

8. Conclusion (recommendation): Draw conclusions or make recommendations

based on the analysis results.

Note: Some of these steps may be iterated as necessary.

Application Of Statistics

Statistical methods are applied to interpret data with variability. Throughout the
engineering problem solving process, engineers often encounter data showing
variability. Statistics provides essential tools to deal with the observed variability.
Examples of the application of statistics in the engineering problem solving process
include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Summarizing and presenting data: numerical summary and visualization in

descriptive statistics.

2. Inferring the characteristics (mean, median, proportion, and variance) of

single/two populations: z, t, x2, and F tests in parametric statistics; signed,
signed-rank, and rank-sum tests in nonparametric statistics.

3. Testing the relationship between variables: correlation analysis; categorical

data analysis.

4. Modeling the causal relationship between the response and independent

variables: regression analysis; analysis of variance.

5. Identifying the sources of variability in response: analysis of variance.

6. Evaluating the relative importance of factors for the response variable:

regression analysis; analysis of variance.

7. Designing an efficient, effective experiment: design of experiment.

Engr. A. CUH-ING
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 These applications would lead to development of general laws and principles such as
Ohm's law and design guidelines.

Enumerative Vs. Analytic Studies

Two types of studies are defined depending on the use of a sample in statistical
inference:

1. Enumerative study: Makes an inference to the well-defined population from

which the sample is selected. (e.g.) defective rate of products in a lot

2. Analytic study: Makes an inference to a future (conceptual) population. (e.g.)

defective rate of products at a production line

COLLECTING ENGINEERING DATA

Data Collection Methods

Three methods are available for data collection:

1. Retrospective study: Use existing records of the population. Some crucial

information may be unavailable and the validity of data be questioned.

2. Observational study: Collect data by observing the population with as minimal

interference as possible. Information of the population for some conditions of
interest may be unavailable and some observations be contaminated by
extraneous variables.

3. Designed experiment: Collect data by observing the population while

controlling conditions on the experiment plan. The findings would obtain
scientific rigorousness through deliberate control of extraneous variables.

MECHANISTIC AND EMPIRICAL MODELS

Mechanistic Vs. Empirical Models

Models (explaining the relationship between variables) can be divided into two
categories:

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 1. Mechanistic model: Established based on the underlying theory, principle, or
law of a physical mechanism.

2. Empirical model: Established based on the experience, observation, or

experiment of a (population) under study.

Cite a previous study (project study, research, experiment, etc.) you did before and
identify what of the three methods was/were used for data collection and why? Write
your answer in the space below.

My thoughts on the role of statistics in engineering.

Engr. A. CUH-ING
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means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise of any part of this document, without prior written permission of SLU, is strictly prohibited.