How creative engineers think

Article Abstract:

Great engineers use a matrix form of thought which uses association of ideas to arrive at creative solutions. The matrix thinker takes information from one object or discipline to form a solution in another. Examples of this type of thinking include Sir Marc Brunel's development of the tunneling shield to construct a tunnel under the river at St Petersburg, Russia. Brunel's original brief was to construct a bridge, but observation of the tunneling pipeworm furthered his thinking on alternative solutions. Other products of matrix thinking include the Crystal Palace and the Eiffel Tower.

Usage, Tunnel construction, History, Design and construction, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Creativity, Eiffel Tower, Tunneling, Creative thinking, Crystal Palace, Hyde Park, London

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Dam engineers go over the top

Article Abstract:

A project has been designed to protect the Alvin Wirtz Dam, near Austin, Texas, from overtopping by a probable maximum flood. This overtopping results in the destruction of embankment. The project involves the use of a cost effective soil-cement overlay. Compacted dry density affects the strength of soil-cement mix. Moisture content at the time of placement affects the dry density of cement mix. An increase in particle size aggregate distribution increases the strength and dry density of the soil-cement mix.

Prevention, Texas, Dams, Dam failures

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Rooms for nonengineers in the Corps of Engineers

Article Abstract:

The US Army Corps of Engineers' policy allowing the hiring of nonengineers for its projects has been met with opposition. Engineering projects are no longer the focus of the Civil Works Program and there are positions which does not require the supervision of engineers. Nonengineers should be given an equal opportunity to be applied for these positions as long as they possess the qualifications and experience needed to perform the job well.

Employment, United States. Army. Corps of Engineers

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