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What are foundations in engineering?

A foundation is defined by The Britannica Dictionary as “a usually stone or concrete structure that supports a building from underneath.” In engineering, the foundation can be thought of as the point where the superstructure meets the soil beneath it. Foundations distribute the weights coming from the structure itself to the earth through the connection of the structure to the soil. In special occasions, the connection of the structure can also be to water, known as “floating structures.” Any structure, other than a boat, with a foundation flotation mechanism that enables it to float on water is referred to as a “floating structure.” An example of a floating structure is the newly constructed public park called Little Island, which rises about 200 feet out of the water.

In general, foundations are categorized as shallow or deep. It is generally understood that shallow foundations are constructed close to the earth's surface. Shallow foundations are excellent for buildings that are less than six feet deep, or "transfer loads at a shallow depth," while deep foundations are positioned farther below the surface of the ground and disperse structural loads deep into the earth. Deep foundations are frequently utilized when constructing superstructures like skyscrapers, housing complexes, or shopping malls because they enable a more stable foundation.

Shallow and deep foundations have differences and cannot be compared to each other because both foundations serve different purposes. When selecting a type of foundation, it all depends on the type of project, so it is best to always consult with a professional with engineering experience. A professional will choose the best course of action based on the project.

 

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International Women in Engineering Day

Next Friday, June 23rd, will mark the 7th International Women in Engineering Day (INWED). Initially, popularity and enthusiasm for the day expanded the celebration from its concentrated origin in the United Kingdom to become a worldwide event.

Originally launched in 2014 by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), INWED sought to recognize and celebrate the presence and importance of women in engineering. INWED’s website calls the day “an accessible and inspiring way for companies, institutions, organizations, schools, universities, and individuals to raise the profile of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and related sectors, showcase a commitment to diversity, and inspire future generations by organizing their own events and activities.”
WES’ own mission to be active supporters of women, collaborators with government agencies and policy makers, and challengers of stagnant cultures merges into the yearly celebration of INWED.

This year’s theme, #Inventors&Innovators, will focus on highlighting the work women engineers around the world are doing to build a better future. INWED will focus on encouraging all supporting groups to organize events in support of INWED. Some examples on how to get involved, according to the campaign website, include becoming a STEM ambassador; hosting a networking, mentoring, careers, or social event; signing up to their newsletter and following their social media accounts, such as Twitter and Instagram at @INWEB1919, and joining WES as a corporate partner; and / or promoting this year’s theme with the #Inventors&Innovators and #INWEB23 hashtags.

For more information about INWED and how you or your organization can participate, visit www.inwed.org.uk.

 

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

United States Infrastructure

Most of the infrastructure of the United States (US) was constructed in the nineteenth century. Various types of infrastructure include lock chambers, dams, levees, water pipes, sewage pipes, and bridges, with an estimated average life expectancy of 50 years. As the aging infrastructures’ quality deteriorates over time, it is critical that repairs and maintenance remain consistent in order to keep us safe.

Climate change is one of the most serious infrastructure challenges the US faces today, causing crumbling bridges and water systems as a result of unprecedented rainfall, floods, and heat waves. These failures have caused widespread damage throughout the US. Infrastructure built centuries ago was not designed for the environment we have today; therefore, it is critical that the US prioritizes and funds infrastructure on a national scale.

To save our infrastructure, we must all work together to address this long-term issue. The rising costs of materials will delay repairs, and pushing forward on critical infrastructure improvements would be the first step toward having funds to combat aging infrastructure. Working together to combat climate change will additionally slow the deterioration of infrastructure.

 

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What is Additive Manufacturing?

Did you know that additive manufacturing (AM) makes physical objects from 3D digital designs? AM is defined by GE Additive as “data computer-aided-design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners to direct hardware to deposit material, layer upon layer, in precise geometric shapes.”

Digital technology has been revolutionizing the engineering industry for decades, and AM brings a new and improved angle that will expand the range of designs. AM is capable of producing shapes that were previously unattainable using only metal powder material and a laser machine. Instead of molding or even machining, the laser machine can recreate and build up the 3D printing layer by layer, including the detailed structures on the inside. AM is so practical that engineers are able to make last minute changes to the 3D printing without delaying or ruining the object. Additionally, a large section of the 3D printing can be made as a single large piece instead of printing multiple smaller parts and then assembling them together. It is safe to say that as the industries become more aware of what AM is capable of doing and AM becomes more popular within industries, it will have a bright future due to its capability of working so well side-by-side with other technology, including machining. AM can also be utilized in other industries such as aviation and medical because it is capable of printing aircraft parts and medical devices, including creation surgical implants.

To learn more about AM, please visit: GE Additive

 

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The Engineering Behind the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloons

November 24 is Thanksgiving, and while we will spend time around the dinner table next Thursday evening, many people will kick off the day by watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

If you’ve ever wondered about all the science and engineering behind the parade, read on.

When engineering a new balloon design, creators first sketch out a diagram, which is examined and adjusted by engineering experts, to ensure that the design will safely float. Then dimensions are determined and a real-size clay model of the design is created, to calculate how much fabric and helium is needed.

The float then goes through months of testing, conducted by dozens of handlers. The tests are to ensure proper inflation and deflation, easy handling, etc. Then the finishing touches are added to the balloon.

Fun Facts:

  •  It takes 90 minutes to inflate a parade balloon and 15 minutes to deflate one.
  • The average balloon requires 12,000 cubic feet of helium. That’s enough to fill about 2,500 bathtubs.
  • Balloon pilots must attend training and must be able to walk the parade route backwards. Balloon handlers support the pilot and help maintain control of the balloons. They must weigh at least 120 pounds and be in good health.

For more information about this year’s parade, go to: https://www.macys.com/social/parade/