"Logical thinking" is a topic frequently covered in post-hire training sessions.
On the other hand, many engineers argue that it doesn't prove useful in their day-to-day tasks.
However, this is far from the truth. Given that machinery obeys the principles of natural science, logical thinking becomes crucial.
In this piece, we delve into why logical thinking is essential for mechanical engineers and how it can be applied effectively.
- Summary of the Article
- Clearly differentiate between facts, personal interpretations, and necessary actions.
- It's crucial to determine the necessary actions yourself.
- Start with the necessary actions when presenting findings.
What is Logical Thinking?
Though various elements like MECE and logic trees play a part, for mechanical engineers, it's vital to focus on:
- Facts
- Personal Interpretations
- Necessary Actions
These three should be distinctly identified and clarified.
Facts
Facts refer to objective information, unaffected by individual biases.
For instance, if a measurement device displays a value of 100N, nobody would read it as 200N.
Thus, the display of "100N" is a fact.
Personal Interpretations
Personal Interpretations indicate "how one thinks based on the facts."
Since these can vary between individuals, they must be distinguished from facts.
While one might interpret a specific result as indicating a particular trend, another might consider the possibility of measurement errors.
Necessary Actions
Necessary Actions relate to "What should be done next?" based on the interpretation.
This is the most crucial aspect. If the subsequent steps aren't decided upon, the evaluation exercise becomes futile.
Key Points in Logical Thinking
- Decide on the necessary action yourself.
Even if unsure, determining some action is required.
Simply reporting results without conclusions or interpretations is inadequate.
Also, many young professionals stop at interpretations, leaving conclusions to others, potentially causing work to stall. - State the necessary action upfront when reporting.
Some might explain results and interpretations at length before presenting conclusions, which can be inefficient and frustrating for listeners or readers.
For clarity and efficiency, it's best to mention actions initially.
Example of Logical Thinking
I explain above points with example.
ex) A device designed to withstand a 400N load was tested with that load.
However, it subsequently deformed.
Facts
First, clarify the measurements you have performed and the objective results obtained from them.
- The prototype was placed on a workbench, and a 400N load was applied at its center.
- The load led to a 1mm deformation near the load point.
Note）It is important to describe only the actual data obtained, without your own interpretation.
Interpretation (Why was it deformed?)
Clarify your own ideas on how you would judge these results.
For example, the following interpretations are possible.
- Inadequate design calculations causing unexpected deformations.
- Improper application of load during the test.
- Defects in the prototype.
After careful consideration, the interpretation here is that the design calculations were inaccurate.
Necessary Actions
Based on the interpretation, decide what to do next.
- Increase thickness to enhance strength.
- Recalculate with a thickness increased by 1.2 times.
Report these findings to the concerned parties.
Thus, an ideal report would start with:
"When tested, the prototype deformed at 400N. As a response, we'll analyze the structure again after increasing its thickness by 1.2 times. Details are provided below."
If you start with this kind of explanation, the listener will ask, "Why increase the wall thickness?" and then ask for more details.
Conclusion
Logical thinking is indispensable for mechanical engineers.
It's vital to distinctly differentiate facts, personal interpretations, and necessary actions.
Also, explaining the necessary action at the beginning ensures smooth communication.
Don't dismiss it as irrelevant. Instead, consciously incorporate it into your daily tasks.