CS1003 Example Problem

Example Problem
Problem Solving – A Structure Angle

PROBLEM: synthesize a well-formed solution to the following question:

A mechanical structure is attached to a wall. It extends from point F upward to point P with 1.5
meters tall. From point A parallel to point F, the angle of elevation to the peak point P is 40°. If a
link is going be constructed between point B (halfway from A to F) toward point P, what is the
expected elevation angle from point B to the peak point P?

Do more than just calculate an answer. Prepare a solution which can be easily followed by one of
your colleagues, and forms the foundation for a generic algorithm which can be communicated to
the computer. Then, write MATLAB codes to implement your solution.

Example Problem – updated: 2010-09-09 Page 1 of 2

 CS1003 Example Problem

• Draw a diagram to visualize the problem and help with the solution if necessary.

1.5 m

∠PFB
∠PAF = 40o
∠PBF = ?

F B A

• Figure out the available input parameters and output to be produced.

Input:
9 Length of side PF in meters, denoted by LenPF
9 Angle of ∠PAF in degrees, denoted by AnglePAF
Output:
9 Angle of ∠PBF in degrees, denoted by AnglePBF

• Assemble background knowledge to derive a symbolic solution to compute the output.

9 Sum of angles in a triangle is 180o.
9 LenFB = LenBA.
9 An optional assumption: the wall is perpendicular to the ground. Then, ∠PFB = 90 o.
Hence,
9 AngleFPA = 90 – AnglePAF
9 LenFA = LenPF * tan(AngleFPA)
9 LenFB = 0.5 * LenFA
9 AnglePBF = arctan(LenPF / LenFB)

• Write MATLAB codes to implement the solution.

9 Run your program with LenPF = 1.5 and AnglePAF = 40.

Example Problem – updated: 2010-09-09 Page 2 of 2