Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Optimization Of Handicap Ramp, Tyler Schilling

Undergraduate Journal of Mathematical Modeling: One + Two

The objective of this project is to minimize the cost of building a handicap ramp. This is done by introducing an equation that represents the total cost of the construction, including labor and materials. Variables are then defined in terms of block length l, allowing for an equation with one variable to be graphed and derived. This equation then undergoes the first derivative test to find a value of l that would create a minimum output for cost. This value is then compared to the physical constraints of the project allowing for a realistic minimum cost to be found. …