Coursework Poster

A reflection on my career in digital engineering

This document presents the digital experiences I have gained throughout my early career in engineering, through four years of study at the University of Bolton at an undergraduate level and six years of work within the structural engineering industry. Five examples are shown of my work using digital tools which highlight the skills I have obtained, which will be compared against the attributes set out by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) to demonstrate my path as a Digital Engineer.

Max Dudley

GEO 5- for geotechnical analysis

Dassault Systemes: DraftSight- for drafting & detailing

MasterSeries- for structural design

A geotechnical program utilised for design & analysis of elements, Geo 5 was introduced to me during my bachelor's degree. The gravity wall design tool was predominantly used during my studies, however the earh pressure analysis is useful for projects to determine the condition of soils being used. Geo 5 developed my knowledge of geomechanics, were it is applied daily.

MasterSeries is a program for structural engineering design. Applications include: wind analysis, foundation, masonry & steel design. First used for simply supported steel beams, I am designing complex steel portal frames daily. Additionally, I am capable of utilising MasterSeries for foundation reinforcement design, timber design, masonry design & wind analysis. Using MasterSeries has assisted my growth in engineering by developing my understanding in civil & structural engineering practises. MasterSeries has made me a more responsible & independant engineer.

DraftSight is a CAD format tool that produces 2D & 3D images, later transferred onto paper documents. Draftsight intorduced me to digital engineering as it was the first software I used within engineering. I use Draftsight daily to produce drawings & assist structural design. DraftSight has significantly improved my drafting skills, were I am able to produce drawings of high quality at a quicker rate.

Hilti Profis Anchor Channel Designer- for structural design

Microsoft Excel & Construction Connection Software

To conclude my bachelor's degree, I produced a steel connection designer. Critically reviewing existing connection software highlighted characteristics that must be used to meet industry standards, as well as understanding the calcultions being produced.

A tool for structural design, Hilti provides designs for anchorage systems. Used for to fasten down sole plates to concrete slabs in timber framed buildings to prevent uplift. Hilti offers solutions to uncommon applications when standard strategies are inappropriate.

To summarise, reflecting on my personal experiences using digital applications and comparing them to the guidelines outlined by JBM, I am confident that I am in the correct direction towards being a better digital engineer.