Applications of Mathematical Software Packages in Structural Engineering Education and Practice

The use of mathematical software packages provides a number of benefits to an engineering user. In general, the packages provide a platform that supports iterative design and parametric analysis through a flexible, transparent interface combined with extensive computing power. This enables an engineering user to develop design equations that are based on fundamental mechanics theories, rather than relying on the "black-box" approach of most commercial design packages. As an example, a closed-form solution for obtaining effective length factors for the design of stepped columns is presented. In the example a series of formula is used to demonstrate the transparency of Mathcad, including the ability of using real engineering units in the calculations, formulas as they may appear in textbooks or in codes, and ability to hide and password protect some areas. This facilitates easier automation of the design and design checking processes. Most commercial structural design packages can be classified as black-box packages. The analyst inputs data at one end only to receive results at the other without fully appreciating the process the input data have gone through. This phenomenon has the tendency of reducing the engineer to a technician, blindly implementing the ideas of the software designer. The Mathcad package discussed in this paper and similar mathematical packages returns the engineer to being in control of the design process.