Engineering Computations - Workshop Notes for Autumn Semester 2026

Engineering Computations - Workshop Notes for Autumn Semester 2026

Week Two Overview

In this workshop, held during the Autumn Semester of 2026, various topics surrounding engineering computations were discussed, focusing on the material organization in Canvas, lab schedules, assessment details, and Excel computational techniques.

Canvas Materials and Feedback

  • The instructor requested feedback regarding the accessibility and organization of materials in Canvas for students. Suggestions for improvement are encouraged, particularly to address the needs of diverse students.

Workshop Logistics

  • Students are reminded about the transition to lab computer classes starting this week.
  • Online tutorials will be led by the instructor for weeks 2 to 5, followed by Dr. Islam for weeks 6 to 12.
  • The schedule for lab computers and Zoom links was confirmed, clarifying that flexibility for student allocation is limited by timetabling constraints, which means students should communicate directly with their tutors (Nick, Marwa) regarding any issues.

Weekly Agenda

  • The workshop will cover the material from week one, including video content and live problem-solving exercises.
  • Important materials related to assessments and lab templates will also be discussed.

Assessment Details

  • Assessment Task One is now available and will be critical for academic performance. Key due dates include release times and deadlines for submissions.
  • The assessment consists of developing an Excel program to calculate deflections in different simply supported beams, requiring the application of physics and engineering principles.
Assessment Components

  1. Task Breakdown:

    • Part 1: Develop Excel sheets to calculate deflection based on specified geometries (circle, rectangle, tube) and calculations of second moment of area, considering optional cross-sections as innovative design elements.
    • Part 2: Select materials to be included in the computational model with an emphasis on density as a critical factor for calculations.
    • The drop-down lists and links to images must be part of the project.

  2. Research Requirements:

    • Students are encouraged to conduct background research to inform their projects and are permitted to use external textbooks or online resources for density and geometry dimensions.

  3. Calculation Requirements:

    • Deflection for various loading conditions must be calculated (uniformly distributed load, point load). Formulas must be derived and simulated in Excel, with clarity in units and dimensions.

  4. Submission Criteria:

    • Correct results will account for 20% of the grading criteria. Projects must be user-friendly and logically organized, with all relevant units specified.
    • Clear documentation of all involved mathematical expressions will be necessary.

Numerical Methods Introduction

  • The workshop introduced fundamental concepts of numerical methods, essential for solving engineering problems that require mathematical modeling.
  • Definitions:
    • Ordinary Differential Equations: Deal with functions of a single variable.
    • Partial Differential Equations: Involve functions of multiple variables, common in engineering applications such as material stress analysis.
Problem-Solving Techniques
  • Iterative Techniques: Examples include Newton’s method, which involves assumptions that can be adjusted iteratively to solve equations accurately.
  • Techniques like optimization are also essential for maximizing or minimizing certain values in project design (e.g., efficiency, cost)

Excel Programming and Functions

  • The instructor provided guidance on utilizing Excel for engineering calculations. Key functions covered:
    • Basic Functions: Including SUM, AVERAGE, IF statements, COUNTIF, and logical operators.
    • Advanced Functionality: Embedding functions in cells, recognizing syntax errors, and showcasing the importance of formula bar signatures.
Example Programming Pseudo Code
  • Introduced the concept of pseudo code useful for structuring program logic in Excel for computation.
  • Emphasis on input-output processes and maintaining clarity in workflow during programming exercises.

Key Mathematical Considerations

  • Students were reminded about Taylor’s theorem and the importance of recognizing the remainder in approximations, which impacts the accuracy of solutions.
  • Maximizing Accuracy: Students encouraged to evaluate error tolerances and refine their methods accordingly.
Example of Calculation Incorporation
  • Illustrated how to create a computational framework in Excel for calculating deflection and other properties based on varied beam geometries, clearly conveying the need to maintain robust and clear documentation within their projects.

Conclusion and Next Steps

  • The workshop concluded with encouragement for students to ask questions and seek clarification during lab sessions and via email.
  • All workshop content, including recordings, will be made available in the Canvas module for further study.