#048 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Connor Ferster - Structural Engineering Automation

#058 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Morten Engen - Structuralcodes Python Library Overview

Welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Podcast [https://flocode.substack.com/podcast]! Today, we're kicking off 2025 with a deep dive into open-source tools for structural engineering. Our guest is Morten Engen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/morten-engen/], a civil engineer at Multiconsult [https://www.multiconsultgroup.com/] and Adjunct Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) [https://www.ntnu.edu/]. Morten is the lead developer of Structural Codes [https://github.com/fib-international/structuralcodes], an open-source Python library which paves a new path for how engineers approach capacity based design. This episode is a live, hands-on demonstration, almost like a webinar, where Morten walks us through Structuralcodes, complete with practical coding examples and insights. Whether you're a seasoned python programmer or just getting started, you'll gain valuable knowledge about bridging engineering, coding and how our design codes are shaped. Show Notes: * Episode Highlights: * Welcome to the Flocode Podcast and introductions. * About Dr. Morten Engen: career journey and academic background. * What is Structural Codes, and why was it developed? * An overview of the library: focusing on Eurocode 2 and reinforced concrete. * Challenges and inspirations in maintaining an open-source capacity tool. * Practical workflows: integrating Structural Codes with engineering tools like FEM software. * Live coding walkthrough: setting up and using Structural Codes. * Expanding to other codes like ACI and Canadian standards. * Modular architecture and customization for unique engineering needs. * Encouraging community contributions and future plans for Structural Codes. * Key Links: * Structural Codes Documentation [https://fib-international.github.io/structuralcodes/] * GitHub Repository for Structural Codes [https://github.com/fib-international/structuralcodes] (Star it, fork it, provide feedback and commentary!) * FIB Model Code Information [https://fib-international.org/publications/model-codes.html] * Connect with Morten Engen on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/morten-engen/] I really appreciate Morten’s efforts in leading the structuralcodes [https://github.com/fib-international/structuralcodes] project. It’s a fantastic contribution to our industry and I hope that Flocode listeners investigate it, use it and ultimately help to shape it with practical feedback and suggestions. This is my own personal intent as well. I am working toward implementing aspects of ACI 318-19 and CSA A23.3. If anybody is interested in helping with this, get in touch. Thanks to Morten for sharing his excellent work and thank you all for your time and attention. See you in the next one. James 🌊 Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights 🌊 at flocode.substack.com/subscribe [https://flocode.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

#050 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Peter Debney - Computational Engineering

Hello everyone, welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Podcast! Today, I’m joined by Peter Debney, a chartered structural engineer with over 35 years of experience in both engineering practice and engineering software development. Peter has worked extensively with Arup [https://www.arup.com/] as part of their Oasys [https://www.oasys-software.com/] software team, contributing to some of the most advanced solutions for finite element analysis (FEA), structural design, and crowd simulation. Peter is also the author of one of my favorite engineering books, ‘Computational engineering [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/computational-engineering/]’. It’s the first engineering book that I’ve read in a long time that made me smile. Full of practical advice and ‘engineeringisms’ that help you think more clearly. I read it on my phone during my daily commute over a few weeks. Loved it. IStructE Online Store | Peter Debney - Computational engineering [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/computational-engineering/] Topics Covered in ‘Computational engineering [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/computational-engineering/]’: * Design (including parametric design) * Modelling (and its problems) * Analysis (basics and methods/linear, nonlinear, and dynamic) * Optimization * AI and machine learning * The future of engineering software I highly recommend Peter’s book to all structural engineers. It’s full of invaluable advice and insights on how to think critically about engineering and approach problems in the most practical way, and not just in relation to computational design. I wish there were more books like it. We dive into some of these topics today, but we'll also be discussing Peter's career journey, how he transitioned from traditional structural engineering to becoming a domain expert in computational design, and his involvement with the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), where he’s currently the Chair of the Yorkshire Regional Group and a member of the Digital Workflows and Computational Design Panel. We talk about the increasing role of automation, machine learning, and AI in engineering workflows, and how computational tools are shaping the future of the industry. Peter shares his insights on avoiding common pitfalls in FEA models and the benefits of understanding structural behavior before relying on software. We explore the mindset required for modern engineers to succeed in a world that increasingly relies on computational approaches. Peter offers great advice for young engineers on how to approach computational design, mastering problem-solving techniques, and even how learning a musical instrument can improve your understanding of dynamics in structural engineering. Links to items discussed: * Sydney Opera House 50 years on [https://www.istructe.org/resources/case-study/sydney-opera-house-50-years-on/] (A great read) * Confessions of a Computational Engineer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SH_hAbvni0Y&ab_channel=PeterDebney] (Peter’s talk for IStructE on his career path) * https://www.oasys-software.com/ [https://www.oasys-software.com/] (Oasys Structural Software) I also want to acknowledge Peter's inspiring journey. He has overcome significant personal challenges, including dyslexia and speech barriers, and has become a powerful advocate for progression and adaptive approaches to neurodiversity in our profession. Another great discussion with a fascinating character. These podcasts are a lot of fun and I appreciate the kind words from everybody, wherever you are on the planet. I loved Peter’s book. It reminded me of the great ‘Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down’ by JE Gordon [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/245344.Structures]. Another great read and one that Peter noted as an inspiration. I always welcome recommendations for new books, please comment below with your suggestions. See you in the next one! James 🌊 Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights 🌊 at flocode.substack.com/subscribe [https://flocode.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

#048 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Connor Ferster - Structural Engineering Automation

Hi all 👋, Welcome back. Today I’m speaking to my friend, Connor Ferster. Connor has been operating in the Python for Engineering space for a few years now and has become a leading voice. He is the founder of StructuralPython [https://www.structuralpython.com/]. He is the author of the highly regarded StructuralPython [https://www.structuralpython.com/] course, which teaches engineers practical, Python-based solutions to streamline workflows and address real-world challenges in structural design. His next project, Engineering Automator [https://www.engineeringautomator.com/], digs into engineering automation, guiding engineers on integrating custom Python solutions into their specific work environments for optimal efficiency and giving you a chance to maintain your sanity amidst the ever-increasing demands of the industry. In this episode, we discuss: * Engineering toolkits and workflow automation * Python for complex structural calculations * Open-source tools in structural engineering * Educational gaps in engineering with Python Connor is also a key contributor to the open-source engineering community. His python libraries, handcalcs [https://github.com/connorferster/handcalcs] and forallpeople [https://github.com/connorferster/forallpeople], are popular engineering tools. * handcalcs [https://github.com/connorferster/handcalcs] https://github.com/connorferster/handcalcsrenders LaTeX math expressions in a way that mirrors traditional handwritten math (like MathCad). * forallpeople [https://github.com/connorferster/forallpeople] https://github.com/connorferster/forallpeopleis a robust units management library simplifying the complexity of unit conversions. These open-source projects not only demonstrate his technical approach but highlight his dedication to making engineering tools more accessible to everyone. He’s an open book, pushing things forward. That’s what it’s all about. Connor also contributes to the development of Pynite [https://pynite.readthedocs.io/en/latest/index.html], an open-source structural analysis library led by Craig Brinck. Listen to episode on Pynite here [https://open.substack.com/pub/flocode/p/042-flocode-podcast-craig-brinck?r=tbs50&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web] 🔗🎙. Connor is helping to formalize and drive consistency in Pynite, making it even more accessible and reliable to structural engineers worldwide. Recently, he left his position at RJC Engineering here in Vancouver to focus on StructuralPython [https://www.structuralpython.com/]full-time, and I’m excited to see what new ideas, courses, and tools he’ll come up with, given the extra bandwidth. Check out his recent series of interviews with engineers who have used Python to create their own workflow solutions. It’s always a pleasure to speak with him and I hope our listeners take a closer look at his work and upcoming Engineering Automator [https://www.engineeringautomator.com/] course, his waitlist is currently open. You can also go to https://engtoolkit.com [https://engtoolkit.com] to get your free: * PDF framework for building your own automated engineering toolkit * Links for Connor’s full, unlisted, video interviews Connor is always welcome on this podcast, and I look forward to following his journey in the years to come. See you in the next one. James 🌊 Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights 🌊 at flocode.substack.com/subscribe [https://flocode.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

#046 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Liam Brannigan - Data Science and Civil/Structural Engineering

Welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Engineering Insights Podcast. Today, I’m speaking with Liam Brannigan. Liam is an experienced data scientist, fellow Irishman, and the creator of an excellent course on Polars, one of Python’s fastest-growing data manipulation libraries. Liam is also a contributor to Polars fantastic documentation [https://docs.pola.rs/]. In this episode, we’ll be taking a bird’s-eye view of the data science landscape and exploring how it can benefit practicing engineers. Liam brings excellent insights from his diverse career across multiple domains, spanning everything from finance to oceanography and now, data engineering. * Check out Liam’s course here: Data Analysis with Polars [https://www.udemy.com/share/107mtq3@S3zd23USeiUqyOLf26ceJmYMl6EMdwlpvU7aF4TidyCDbdVZ-4fadCOyVlM27Pg=/] * I have taken Liam’s course on Polars, it’s concise, clear and easy to implement. While I still use Pandas, I am using Polars more and more as my data sets increase in size and fidelity and as I gain comfort in the methods. It’s very similar to Pandas, the transition is pretty smooth for the most part - will talk about this in more detail soon. * Follow Liam on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-brannigan-9080b214a/]. We dive into why data science is becoming more important for modern engineers, the advantages of using tools like Polars and Pandas, and how these technologies can improve workflows, boost efficiency, and handle larger datasets more effectively than traditional tools like Excel. I had a great chat with Liam, because of this broad background he is uniquely positioned to understand the pros and cons of data engineering principles in a civil/structural engineering context. There’s a lot of great information in this episode. Huge thanks to Liam for coming on the podcast, really enjoyed it. See you in the next one! James 🌊 Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights 🌊 at flocode.substack.com/subscribe [https://flocode.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

#045 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Ramaseshan Kannan - Computational Science in Engineering

In today’s episode, I welcome Ramaseshan Kannan, the Head of Computational Science at Arup and a Royal Academy of Engineering Industrial Fellow. With a PhD in Numerical Linear Algebra from the University of Manchester and a career that spans both industry and academia, Ramaseshan is at the forefront of research in our industry as it relates to computational science, machine learning, and numerical analysis. * Connect with Ramaseshan Kannan | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramaseshankannan/] At Arup, Ramaseshan drives the development of advanced algorithms and finite element solvers, bringing innovation to the built environment. His work is a powerful blend of theory and practice, pushing the boundaries in high-performance computing, uncertainty quantification, and optimization. This area of research is one of deep personal interest to me. While Ramaseshan delves into the underlying theory and mechanics, myself and many others are on the other side of the fence, trying to implement the types tools and ideas that he creates into practical applications for our clients and projects. It’s an exciting time to be in engineering, as more tools are becoming available that are increasingly approachable, though each comes with its own learning and opportunity costs. The decisions we make about which tools to invest our time in are crucial—and often, it’s only in hindsight that we understand their true value. But such is the art of progress, it’s only after the fact we realize we were banging our head against the wall. My conversation with Ramaseshan was both inspiring and thought-provoking. I had a fantastic discussion with him, and I look forward to our next conversation. He’s a remarkable thinker, and I’m eager to see where his ideas and his work will lead. Thank you for being part of the Flocode community. It’s been a lot of fun so far. I will have more announcements soon. See you in the next one. James 🌊 Notes: * What Could Possibly Go Wrong? Meta Tools for Digital Tools and Workflows 🛠️ [https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ramaseshankannan_datadrivenengineering-computationalscience-activity-7241546020260581376-NS5Y/] - By Ramaseshan Kannan * CSIC Research Talk by Dr Ramaseshan Kannan “Blending data-and computational sciences for sustainability” [https://www-smartinfrastructure.eng.cam.ac.uk/news/csic-research-talk-dr-ramaseshan-kannan-blending-data-and-computational-sciences-sustainability] * Royal Academy of Engineering [https://raeng.org.uk/programmes-and-prizes/programmes/uk-grants-and-prizes/support-for-research/research-awardees/industrial-fellowship-awardees/2022/dr-ramaseshan-kannan-arup] Ramaseshan spoke briefly about the potential of LLM’s in the geometry or parametrization space and since our conversation, I found the following: World Labs [https://www.worldlabs.ai/], a newly formed company, said Friday (Sept. 13) that it has raised $230 million to build large world models (LWMs) that “perceive, generate and interact with the 3D world.” “We aim to lift AI models from the 2D plane of pixels to full 3D worlds — both virtual and real — endowing them with spatial intelligence as rich as our own,” the company said in a Friday post [https://www.linkedin.com/posts/world-labs_today-we-are-announcing-the-formation-of-activity-7240328987950919683-AXL9?utm_source=li_share&utm_content=feedcontent&utm_medium=g_dt_web&utm_campaign=copy] on LinkedIn. Source: World Labs Raises $230 Million to Build Spatially Intelligent AI [https://www.pymnts.com/news/investment-tracker/2024/world-labs-raises-230-million-to-build-spatially-intelligent-ai/] Pretty interesting! Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights 🌊 at flocode.substack.com/subscribe [https://flocode.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]