Finding the optimal path across two point with varying speed

  • #1

Homework Statement


[PLAIN]http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/194/calcdr.jpg [Broken]
I need to find the optimal path across two points, in two straight line segments. The speed from point A to B is 12ft/s, and 4ft/s from point B to C.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I set segment AB as x, BC as y, ED as w, and DC as z. With that, I set up the equations:

x/12 + y/4 = P
and
w + z = 100

However, I am stumped at how to progress from here on. I tried playing around with the trigonometric functions in the triangle, but that seemed to complicate the problem even more. Does anyone has any insight into this?
 
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  • #2
I'm still having trouble on figuring out what to do next >.<
 

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