How important is fourier analysis to Mechanical Engineering?

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SUMMARY

Fourier analysis is essential for Mechanical Engineering, particularly in applications involving Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) and methods such as Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Difference Method (FDM). The discussion highlights the importance of mastering Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) and plotting magnitude spectrums, especially for those analyzing data in internships or academic projects. While some may argue that understanding Fourier theory is not necessary for all career paths in mechanical engineering, the skills gained from tackling such challenges can be invaluable. The participant in the discussion decided to persist through their internship, ultimately finding success and satisfaction in their progress.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT)
  • Basic knowledge of Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)
  • Familiarity with Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Difference Method (FDM)
  • Proficiency in Maple for data analysis and visualization
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the fundamentals of Fourier analysis and its applications in engineering
  • Learn how to effectively use Maple for plotting and data analysis
  • Explore advanced techniques in Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Difference Method (FDM)
  • Prepare for the GRE with a focus on engineering mathematics and problem-solving
USEFUL FOR

Engineering Physics majors, Mechanical Engineering students, data analysts in engineering fields, and anyone interested in mastering Fourier analysis for practical applications in mechanical engineering.

Overkill777
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I'm an Engineering Physics Major senior and I'm going to get my Masters in Mechanical Engineering. I have an internship in the Polymer and Coatings Department Analyzing Data. I am mostly going to be doing Fast Fourier Transforms and studying the data.

The problem is I don't really know what I'm doing. I'm the only one doing the data analysis so I don't have anyone to talk it over with. And I'm having some difficulties with the professor. It's really boring and I'm not interested in the project at all.

So at this point I have to decide if I want to try to tough it out for the rest of the summer or just go get a job at Staples. How good would this internship look to a graduate school for M.E.? What should I do?

Also this is taking a ton of energy out of me so I'm not getting time to study for the GRE which I am taking in August.
 
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Mechanical engineering is such a broad discipline (arguably the broadest of all engineering disciplines). I'd say you could very easily go through your entire career without ever needing to understand Fourier theory, if that's what you desire.

Having said that, it's probably not as hard as you think if you start from the basics and work your way up to it. I would stick it out if I were you. If you fail to produce a result over the three months, you will at least have learned a lot in the process.
 
Mechanical engineering is such a broad discipline (arguably the broadest of all engineering disciplines). I'd say you could very easily go through your entire career without ever needing to understand Fourier theory, if that's what you desire.

Having said that, it's probably not as hard as you think if you start from the basics and work your way up to it. I would stick it out if I were you. If you fail to produce a result over the three months, you will at least have learned a lot in the process.
 
Fourier analysis is relevant for PDE-solving (FEM, FDM) and probably the heat equation in three dimensions. I understand it can be rather tough (have you studied complex analysis?), but in the end I think it's rewarding. Tough it out, like a brave soldier would.
 
Thanks for your advice. I am going to stick to it. I made huge progress today and feel much better. I just didn't understand Fourier Tranforms and how to plot magnitude spectrums and it took me a while to teach it to myself and to learn Maple on my own too.

And my professor is pleased with what I have done so far.
 

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