The Need of Low Cost Software for Structural Engineering Design

       Tedious hand calculations and slide rules for structural engineering design and analysis has given way to a plethora of low cost or even free structural engineering design software. A few example links are listed for convenience.

The Evolution of Structural Engineering Design Software

It wasn’t too long ago that structural engineering design calculations were performed on paper, with support from that ancient device called the slide rule. Static models ruled, and dynamic response models were limited at best. When mainframe computers were commercially available, software programming advances were developed primarily to speed up the computational processes. Electronic calculators arrived and also began to make significant contributions, and the writing was on the wall for the venerable slide rule. Then, in the early 1960’s, a newer modeling process called finite element analysis became encoded into NASTRAN software, and in the mid 1970’s started to become widely available on mainframe computers. This analysis complemented the more traditional static and dynamic models also being incorporated at the time into structural engineering software. Structural engineering students began to obtain access to unprecedented engineering design software, but only at the price of school tuition. Structural engineers could utilize these engineering programs if their employers had the resources to obtain the expensive computers, software, and technical expertise to install and maintain them.
The development of the personal computer drove another round of developmental structural engineering software, and as the pc became more and more capable the software evolved as well. Today, incredibly powerful (compared to the last century) engineering analysis software is available at little or no cost to the user. While not as capable as commercial versions, free structural engineering design software modules can take on formerly unprecedented analysis and design tasks using personal computers no larger than the “ancient” desk top electronic calculators of the 1960’s.

Sources of Low Cost or Free Structural Engineering Design Software

Following are a few of the many freely available programs that can be utilized for structural engineering design and analysis. By no means a comprehensive list, and no claims, representations, warranties, or guarantees for fitness of use are made here; the usual admonitions re viruses, personal information disclosure, etc. when downloading programs from the internet do apply. “Free” may apply for a limited time, or to trial and evaluation versions only:

• http://yakpol.net/ Combination shareware and freeware spreadsheets.
• http://www.seaoc.org/software.html Various freeware download listing maintained by The Structural Engineers Association Of California.
• http://www.grapesoftware.mb.ca/index.html Evaluation copy is free, continued use requires payment.
• http://www.elpla.com/elpla_en/download.htm Trial versions only, geotechnical analysis and design.
• http://www.fabsec.co.uk/free_fbeam.asp Beam analysis, trial versions.
• http://frame3dd.sourceforge.net/ Open source structural analysis software for static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D frames and trusses.
• http://www.ecf.utoronto.ca/~bentz/mhome.shtml Reinforced concrete panel analysis.
• http://opensees.berkeley.edu/index.php Software framework for developing applications to simulate the performance of structural and geotechnical systems subjected to earthquakes. Requires registration.
• http://www.lisa-fet.com/index.htm Free trial version, low cost full version finite analysis software.

What is Porous Pavements?

What is Porous Pavements?

Porous pavements, both asphalt and concrete have been around for years.  In most areas they haven’t really caught on.  Now, with the large focus on environmental issues and green building, are they worth looking at again?
Pavement design
Traditional pavement design
Typically when pavement mixes are designed, they include different sizes of aggregate.  They use a wide range from fine sand to coarse stone.  The largest size depends on the expected use of the material.  Then it is all bound together with binder or cement.  With asphalt pavement that top layer will go on a water proof layer then a base.  Concrete pavement may go on a base or directly on the ground.
This results in an impenetrable surface that blocks rain water from getting into ground water systems and increases runoff.
Porous pavement design
Porous pavement or pervious pavement is designed using medium and large sized aggregate without any smaller fines such as sand.  It is then held together using with cement or binder.  The lack of fines in the mix creates relatively large pore space in the pavement.  This large pore space allows water to pass through.
The top layer is placed either directly on the ground or on other porous base layers to allow water to drain completely through the system into the ground.
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons as well as a few notes on them.
Pros
Increased water quality – Oils, heavy metals and other contaminates on the pavements are not carried downstream and into stormwater drainage systems.  Also, water is filtered as it passes through the pavement.
Lower initial construction costs – Construction costs may be lower because porous pavements lower the amount of stormwater drainage facilities that a site will need.  Fewer and smaller inlets, detention ponds and storm drain pipes means lower construction costs.
Lower long term costs – less maintenance needed for storm drain and filtration systems.
Fewer fees – Storm water impact fees may be lower since porous pavements are proven to reduce runoff.
Less runoff – Less runoff means less potential flooding and lower peak flows.
Increased safety – Since water drains through the pavement there is a lower chance of hydroplaning and an increase in traction.
LEED Points – It can indirectly help gain LEED Points.  It can contribute in the areas of Stormwater Design, Heat Island Effect, Water Efficient Landscaping, Recycled Content, and Regional Materials.  There may be other ways that using it can help LEED certification.
Cons
Higher initial construction cost – Yes, I know I listed construction cost as a pro also.  The cost of constructing the pavement itself tends to be higher than regular pavement.
Soil restrictions – The soil below the pavement must drain at least as well as the pavement.
Clogging – The pores in the pavement may clog.  Suppliers and other proponents say that regular cleaning and maintenance will nearly eliminate clogging.
Pavement strength – Porous pavements are structurally weaker than standard pavements.   That generally results in them being used only for low traffic roads and parking lots.  Extra care must be taken when designing a pavement for high traffic or heavy traffic.
New/Untested technology – That’s not entirely accurate.  The technology has been tested since at least 1971.  However, most contractors don’t have experience with it.  Proper training, clear instructions, material testing, and site investigations should be done to ensure that the pavement meets all applicable standards during construction.
Contamination – Pavement surfaces usually have a lot of contaminates on them.  Porous pavements can filter contaminants, but no system is 100%.  Since water drains directly into ground soil it is possible that it will take the contaminants with it.
Conclusions
There is a lot of potential for porous pavements in future projects.  Each project would have to be investigated independently to determine any cost or environmental savings that might be gained by using porous pavements.  However, the potential positives do seem to outweigh the potential negatives.  It would certainly be worth your time to investigate it and present your findings to your client.
What are your thoughts on Porous and Pervious Pavements?

Tips on Interviewing

Tips on Interviewing

Whether you are interviewing for a full time job or an internship the basics are the same.  Here’s a few notes, tips and things to keep in mind for interviews.
BEFORE THE INTERVIEW
Everybody Has The Internet
Clear off anything that you posted on the internet that you wouldn’t want the interviewer to see.  Many companies regularly do a Google search before an interview.
Dress The Way The Boss Would
Guys, you should wear a suit and tie.  If it’s a hot environment or in the summer you can probably get away without a coat, but wear the tie.  Ladies, dress equivalently.  The civil engineering world is fairly conservative.  Dress professionally and at least one level higher than you think the job would generally require.
Prepare Answers for Questions
I’m planning an entire post on interview questions.  But have answers to typical questions ready.  Know a few strengths, at least one weakness, some goals, how you’ve handled difficult work situations in the past, etc.
DURING THE INTERVIEW
Qualifications
The interviewer knows that you are probably qualified or they wouldn’t take the time to interview you.  So during the interview, when they ask you about your qualifications, give them examples of specific things you have done in the past.
The Interview is Not About You.  It’s About How You Can Help the Company.
The interviewer wants to find out how you can help them.  The questions they ask will be geared toward this.  Tell them about your accomplishments and how you can use your accomplishments and skills to help them.
Part Of It Is A Personality Test
Whether or not they give you a written test interviewers will try to find out if you will fit in with the team.  The civil engineering field is very team oriented.  Engineers aren’t stereotypically know for there interpersonal skills.  Being able to work well with people is very important.  That is true for your coworkers as well as internal and external clients.
Ask When You’ll Here From Them
When the interview is winding down ask when you can expect to hear from them or when you should call them.  This will set your expectation.  Some places will take months to get back to you.  Some, just a few days.
Don’t Lie
Just like on your resume, don’t lie.  Tell the truth.  If you don’t know the answer then say so.  If the answers looks negative on you, then say what you’ve learned from the experience.
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
Say Thank You
Send a thank you note, or call the interviewer and thank them.   Not a text message or email.  Write the note by hand, or call them.  As old as this advice is it is amazing how few people do this and how effective it is.
Follow Up
If you say you’ll follow up with them at a certain time, then do it.
That’s a few key points.  What are some that you’ve run into that others should know?

Certifications and Licenses (LEED AP)

Certifications and Licenses (LEED AP)


LEED AP

What it is – LEED AP stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Basically, having the LEED AP credential shows that you have specific knowledge and experience using environmentally friendly designs, processes, etcetera.

Who governs it – The LEEP AP is run by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI).

Requirements – Professional experience working on a LEED project
- Pass the LEED AP exams

Who needs it – Anyone working in the construction industry from design all the way through maintenance. Especially if you are working in an area with a very strong environmental focus or environmental needs.

Why you should get it – The environment is a hot topic right now. Having the experience and knowledge to work on environmentally friendly projects is an asset. The LEED AP credential shows that you have both the experience and knowledge to build environmentally friendly constructions.

Why you should not get it – Like most certifications there is no real negative to having LEED AP. However, the credential is focused mainly on building design, construction and maintenance. Outside of buildings there isn’t the same demand for LEED AP. That is changing, though.

When you should get it – Once you start working on LEED projects you are eligible. If you plan on staying in the industry it adds one more proof of qualification to put on the resume.

Other notes – GBCI is in the process of changing from a general LEED AP credential to LEED AP with a specialization. Check out their website for more information on the new specializations.

What is Right of Way (ROW)?

What is Right of Way (ROW)?


Right of Way (ROW)is something that civil engineers work with a lot. It’s on virtually all of the surveys that we use. It’s a key point that must be known if you’re working on a project where private property meets public property. This is especially important when working on transportation projects for local governments. There are a lot of aspects to Right of Way and Right of Way Acquisition. I’m going to talk about it mainly from the transportation side.

What is Right of Way

Here’s an example of what Right of Way (ROW) is. A city owns a public street that goes through a residential neighborhood. They also own a few feet past the pavement on both sides of the street. If a residential street is 30-36 feet wide the city may own a total of 46-50+ feet wide area. So, yes they own part of your front yard. Virtually all public streets are like this, from local residential streets on up to interstate highways which may have ROWs that are hundreds of feet wide.

Why Right of Way

The government holds a right of way wider than the actual street for several reasons. They use the extra land for things like public sidewalks, utilities, or to widen the road in the future. Also, street lights, traffic signals and street parking are all in the ROW.

Right of Way is something that we have to know where is, but civil engineers don’t typically worry about why it’s where it is or how to get more. That sort of thing is typically handled by the government agency itself. Or was figured out when the property was first developed. Civil engineers don’t generally get more once an area is already developed.

However, I’ve had the privilege recently to work on a ROW acquisition project recently. That’s a service that our company offers, and my background in roadway design helped get me involved in a roadway ROW project.

The project

Here are the basics of the project. A two lane county road needed to be widened because of all of the development nearby. Plans were drawn up and the road was designed, but the county didn’t actually own enough land to make the road wider. That’s where we came in on the project. The county hired us to acquire the land for them.

What you have to do

There are several steps involved in ROW acquisition. I’m going to go over the broad steps. Perhaps at a later date I’ll write a more detailed article, or ask our resident expert to put one together for me.

Survey

It seems that everything in civil engineering begins with a survey. The same applies here. With the survey and the plans we can see exactly how much land is needed from each land owner. The surveyor provides documents showing exactly how much land is needed. They generally will also mark the area with flags or other markers.

Initial Letter

An initial letter is sent to the current land owner to let them know about the surveyors and appraisers coming onto their property. The letter also lets the owner know what’s going on with the project; the whys, the whos, etc.

Appraisals

Next the appraisers go to work. They appraise each plot of land that the government needs to buy. The appraisers generally will take into account mailboxes, fences, trees and anything else that may be in the proposed right of way area that current land owner would have to move or lose value if it’s removed.

Title Search

Just like when you buy any piece of property, you do a title search to find out who actually owns the land. This will also tell you about any liens on the property such as a mortgage, tax lien or unpaid debt. Any lien will affect the sale.

Offer Letters

Send the initial offer letter. Basically the offer is for what the appraiser valued the land at.

Negotiation

This can be real long or real short depending on what the land owner wants. I’ve seen some just sign the paperwork and send it back. Some think their land is worth more, some will want fences or custom mailboxes replaced, trees paid for, or many other things. Some just flat out refuse to sell. In most cases something can be worked out to the benefit of both the land owner and the municipality.

Partial Release of Lien

We do have to deal with any liens that are on the property. If there is a mortgage, for example, we have to get a partial release of lien. Basically the bank has to give up that part of the land on their deed. Lien holders may have the right to the money first. That varies some by location. Banks sometimes require a percentage of the money based on a percentage of the property sold.

Acceptance or Condemnation

Eventually, after the negotiations, the land owner accepts or they don’t. If they accept, then the paperwork is signed, they get their money and the government gets the land. If they are unwilling to sign, then it goes to condemnation. That means that it goes before a third party to decide the case. Generally when this happens the government gets the land and the land owner gets fair market value for their property. Because of the expense it really doesn’t do anybody any good to go to condemnation. As long as we follow the laws and our engineering ethics guidelines we are fine.

There is a lot more to it, but that covers the basic process. It is certainly a good thing to know, even if you never do ROW acquisition yourself. Having the knowledge gives you a better understanding of the process and what the municipality has to do on some projects. However, having the expertise can give your company another product to offer municipal clients.

Hot Deals from Civil Enginering Stores

In this post, I just recommend you to a new Civil Engineering Stores where you can shop lot of discounted items relating to Civil Engineering.

Please let me know what you like!    The link to the store is http://astore.amazon.com/civiengiblog-20