Design Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Being Brunel
Engineering Fundamentals: Equilibrium
April 15, 2013 3
Before Newton invented equilibrium in 1686, the world remained in check because of Aristotle’s assertion that everything has its natural place. That is: rocks like to be on the ground, and therefore they fall, unless propelled…Read More
EngCel: Colours, Names and More
March 28, 2013 1
EngCel is a free add-in for Excel that I write and maintain. At its core EngCel it’s an easy-to-use in-line syntax for super-script, sub-script, Greek and mathematical characters. This week I thought I’d update you all on…Read More
Even More Track Structure Interaction
March 21, 2013 4
Since the 1950s we’ve been using continuously welded rail in the UK, and with the introduction of the Eurocode we’re finally being made to consider the effect this has on our structures. If you want a reminder take…Read More
CalcPaper for Excel
March 14, 2013
Tom asked if I would like to write a post. I have been impressed with Tom’s office add-ins. Similarly irritated by excel, I thought I too would post some useful excel macros that I have developed to overcome this.
Calculation…Read More
Building on Finite Elements
January 31, 2013 5
Over the past few decades traditional engineering analysis techniques have rapidly been replaced by computerised methods. Probably the most widely-used type of stress analysis software is based on the ‘finite element’…Read More
Five Ways Out of a Design Corner
January 24, 2013
Here are a few techniques I’ve picked up over my time, which can offer an escape when things just aren’t working out. Common Sense: Beware of stair climbing fire trucks… There’s always the “but would it really…Read More
Codes vs Best Pratice: The Grad Match
December 13, 2012 7
Engineers should lose the codes and rely on best practice. It’s an opinion I’ve only heard advanced by older, potentially wiser, and definitely more experienced engineers. As a graduate I can see the romance in it; harking…Read More
More Track, Structure and Interaction
November 29, 2012 3
As with all something/something-interaction models, the interactors themselves are secondary. As such, the track itself can be modelled as a single line representing all the rails on the structure, and all the furniture…Read More
Five Ways to Annoy Contractors
October 11, 2012 4
It is surprisingly easy, sitting in the office, to forget that the bunch of design calculations and drawings you’ve been pondering over all morning will one day have to be built by someone. Consideration of constructibility is a CDM requirement … Read More
Failing the Factor of Safety
September 27, 2012 8
I thought I’d give this engineering hypothetical a shot: “How much needs go wrong before the factor of safety runs out, and a structure collapses?” Before we start, however, let me draw your attention to the…Read More
