By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • 0 Comments

Engineering DIY Halloween Decorations

Halloween is defined by Britannica as “Contraction of All Hallows’ Eve, a holiday observed on October 31, the evening before All Saints’ (or All Hallows’) Day." For decades, Halloween has been a popular holiday in the United States, celebrated by children and adults. Carving pumpkins, trick-or-treating, wearing costumes, and eating candy are major parts of Halloween celebration traditions.

Engineering skills can be very convenient on Halloween, as engineers can utilize their knowledge to create do-it-yourself (DIY) Halloween decorations. Engineers can demonstrate their creativity and participate in enjoyable activities with their children, family members, or even friends by DIY Halloween decorations for their homes. Engineers can easily create homemade Halloween decorations that will make their homes spooky.

Here are some fun decoration ideas that would be a great fit for engineers:

• A pumpkin elevator can be made with pumpkins and a variety of recyclable materials;

• Germinating pumpkins can be made with pumpkins, seeds, and soil;

• Floating ghosts can be made of plastic pipettes;

• Spider webs can be made from yarn; and

• Paper bats can be made from paper.

Happy Halloween!

 

By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • 0 Comments

Ancient Marvels in Engineering

Modern, high-tech design is typically what comes to mind when we think about engineering. But the strong engineering and design foundations of the past enabled many technological advancements, some of which are seen as wonders of the world today. The following are a few of the most inventive engineering achievements of all time:

  • The Great Wall of China: The Great Wall of China, at nearly 13,000 miles long, is the longest structure ever built. It was built over the course of 2,000 years. In addition to the actual wall, the structure includes 25,000 towers, castles, and other fortresses for soldiers to stay on alert against attack.
  • The Great Pyramid of Giza: The Great Pyramid were masterpieces of technical skill and engineering ability. The sides of the Great Pyramid are aligned perfectly with the four cardinal points of the compass. It is estimated that it took workers over 20 years to complete the construction of the Great Pyramid.
  • Taj Mahal: Beginning in 1631, the Taj Mahal's construction is estimated to have taken 22 years to complete. Even now, the Taj Mahal is still today one of the most recognizable buildings in the world of architecture.
  • Highways: The Romans built a sophisticated system of roads. Roman engineers designed highways to allow for water drainage. The Romans built over 50,000 miles of road by 200 A.D. Highways allowed the Roman legion to travel as far as 25 miles per day.
  • Panama Canal: Beginning in 1904, the Panama Canal is an international waterway that was built to enable ship traffic between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans saving traders a lot of time and money. The canal proved to be an exceptionally successful engineering project, despite being difficult to construct.

 

By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • • 0 Comments

What is Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD)

Did you know that before the invention of Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) software, drafters and designers had to create models by hand using large sheets of paper and drawing boards? This process was not only labor-intensive but also very challenging to review and revise.

Fortunately, the field of engineering and design has undergone a revolution with the advent of CADD software. CADD is a software program used in architecture, engineering, and construction that makes it easier to sketch and create physical components or arrange procedures. One of the key advantages of CADD is its ability to streamline the design process. With traditional drafting methods, any changes or modifications to the design would require starting from scratch. However, with CADD, designers can easily make revisions, saving both time and effort. This flexibility allows for more efficient and accurate designs. Additionally, CADD software offers a wide range of tools and features that enhance the design process. These tools include the ability to create 2D and 3D models, generate detailed drawings, and analyze data. By utilizing these features, engineers and designers can visualize their concepts and identify potential issues. Another key advantage of CADD is that it also promotes collaboration among different firms involved in a project. With the software's ability to share and exchange design files, team members can easily communicate and work together, regardless of their physical location. This level of collaboration not only improves efficiency but also ensures that all parties are on the same page, reducing the risk of errors or misunderstandings. In terms of productivity, CADD greatly speeds up the design process. The increased productivity allows for faster project completion and ultimately leads to cost savings. This iterative process not only improves the quality of the final design but also fosters innovation and problem-solving skills. With its ability to create precise and accurate designs, CADD continues to shape the future of the industry, making it easier than ever to bring ideas to life.

 

By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • 0 Comments

National Aviation Day

Monday, August 19th, 2024, will be National Aviation Day. The annual tribute day is held to honor the men and women who pioneered human flight and had a significant historical impact. This day provides an opportunity for people to appreciate and acknowledge the remarkable advancements made in the field of aviation. To observe National Aviation Day, there are various ways individuals can actively participate and contribute to the celebration.

Here are some ways that you can observe National Aviation Day:

1. Visit an Aviation Museum: Explore the rich history of aviation by visiting a local aviation museum, such as the Intrepid Museum, the Cradle of Aviation Museum, or the Space Shuttle Pavillion. These museums often feature exhibits showcasing vintage aircraft, interactive displays, and educational programs that offer insights into the evolution of aviation.

2. Attend Airshows: Attend airshows organized in your area to witness breathtaking aerial displays and aerobatic performances by skilled pilots. These events not only entertain but also showcase the incredible capabilities of modern aircraft.

3. Take a Flight: Experience the thrill of flying by booking a scenic flight or taking a flying lesson. Many aviation schools and flight centers offer introductory flights, allowing individuals to get a taste of what it's like to be in the air.

4. Volunteer at Aviation Organizations: Support aviation-related organizations by volunteering your time and skills. Whether it's assisting at airshows, helping with restoration projects, or participating in community outreach programs, your contribution can make a difference in promoting aviation.

5. Learn About Aviation History: Take the opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of aviation. Read books, watch documentaries, or participate in online courses to gain a deeper understanding of the pioneers, breakthroughs, and challenges that shaped the aviation industry.

On National Aviation Day, let us come together to celebrate the remarkable achievements in aviation and honor the legacy of the Wright brothers and other pioneers.

 

By Evan Thomas COMPANY NEWSLETTERS • • • • 0 Comments

July 2024 Company Newsletter

KC's July 2024 Newsletter includes a letter from KC President Raj Ravilla; the employee milestones section; a feature on the history of prefabrication in construction; detail on some of KC's new projects; and more.

Download KC’s Company Newsletter – July 2024 edition to keep up with KC’s latest news!