Do the math: too much calculus? (2012)

Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by hanoz on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @03:26PM (#12746914)

I remember once when when driving I was pleased when it occurred to me that I should be seeking to minimise the third derivative of distance with respect to time for the comfort of my passengers. That was the sum total of calculus's contribution to my adult life. Not sure it was worth it.

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Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by ThrustVectoring on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @03:30PM (#12746937)

Curves in freeways are designed that way as well - they don't just start turning suddenly, but gradually transition into and out of the curvature.

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Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by LgWoodenBadger on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @08:25PM (#12748961)

One of my calculus classes in college involved calculating the required spline for a curve of a theoretical portion of interstate in order to meet the interstate requirements/regulations. It was pretty interesting.

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Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by 0xCMP on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @03:46PM (#12747050)

Good ones at least.

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Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by ThrustVectoring on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @04:29PM (#12747416)

Don't quote me on this since I don't remember why I believe it, but I think it's part of the legally mandated design requirements for the US interstate system.

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Re:Do the math: too much calculus? (2012) by 0xCMP on Wednesday October 19, 2016 @06:08PM (#12748133)

No I'm sure there are requirements, but sometimes there are also space or budget constraints (I assume) since some curves are definitely safer and easier than others for the same highway (I-95 for me).

I wished they were more consistent

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