Parameter Estimation Using Spreadsheet Optimization: A Review of Applications in Civil and Environmental Engineering Education and Research

1 Lizette R. Chevalier, Chair, Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, [email protected] 2 Shashi Marikunte, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, [email protected] 3 Jemil Yesuf, Graduate Student, Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, [email protected] Abstract The use of empirical models is an integral part of the design and analysis of civil and environmental engineering systems. One of the most commonly used methods for parameter estimation is linear regression. This technique is also applied to nonlinear models with two unknown parameters when the equation can be linearized through transformation. Equations with more than two unknown parameters can be solved using matrices that expand on the basic form of the solution for linear equations. The use of spreadsheets in engineering education and research is a common tool used for basic curve fitting (two unknown parameters) as well as smaller matrix solutions. This paper presents a different approach for the use of spreadsheets, namely, parameter estimation using optimization. Spreadsheet optimization is a practical platform that easily determines the parameters of equations. The number of unknown variables is not constrained. In addition, the analysis can be expanded to include minimizing a range of nonlinear error functions, consequently allowing for a broader mathematical approach to parameter estimation. This paper reviews the use of spreadsheet optimization on several civil and environmental engineering applications.