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.

 

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.