50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”

Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

ADVANCEMENTS IN COMPUTING TOOLS AND THEIR APPLICATION

IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Naveed Anwar and Adnan Nawaz
ABSTRACT: Tremendous development is going on in various fields related to computing
software and hardware and its applications for last several decades. Often these developments
are done independently with a particular focus, including the development of new Human
Computer Interfaces (HCI), the new display technologies and devices, the Brain Computer
Interface (BCI), and in Robotics etc. Several new integrated devices such as the smart phones,
the tablet and slate computers have become more popular. A similar development is happening
in computing paradigm and software with the special focus on visualization. The wide spread
use of internet, intranet and more recently cloud computing is changing the way computers are
being used, and information is being shared and stored.

Medical sciences is one of the main area in which many of the computer technology and
hardware are been integrated and converging to tackle a wide range application in diagnosis,
biometrics, genetics, and bio-medical engineering. The problems in structural engineering are
numerous and complex and just like medical sciences also related to safety and livability of
human beings.

This paper present an overview of recent advancement in the broad range of computing
technologies and paradigms and their current as well as future potential for applications to
solving the problems and addressing the issues related to education, research, conception,
design, construction and evaluation of structures. The paper also touches upon the modeling
techniques such as mesh less methods for structural analysis, performance based design,
structural instrumentation and monitoring, use of smart materials etc.

KEYWORDS: human computer interfaces (HCI); brain computer interface (BCI); robotics;
smart phones; tablets; cloud computing.

1 INTRODUCTION

The developments in the technologies related to computers, computing, and communications are
happening in an exponential manner, especially when considered along with their reduction in
cost per feature or capability. The corresponding developments in other disciplines and areas,
with probably the exception of medicine, genetics and a few others, are showing much less
innovative growth. Many fields have taken significant advantage of the recent advancements in
computing technology, to adapt, apply and enhance the way they work and address the real-
world issues. However, has not been and major breakthrough in the basic practice of structural
engineering, except, and since the introduction of the finite element analysis based computing,
some 40 years ago. The growth and development in the application of computing tools and
technologies, and the development of new paradigms has been incremental and linear.
This paper reviews some of the recent development in the computing side, and explores how
they may be used to improve the way the structural engineers solve the problems and provide
more innovative, effective, sustainable and safer solution for the built environment.

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

2 NEW COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES, TOOLS AND DEVICES

2.1 Interacting With the Computer

One of the main challenges facing the humanity, since the invention of the computers, has been
finding the effective means to interact and communicate with the computers. We have come a
long way from using the punch cards to the current state of using a multitude of ways to
interfaces with computers, some of which are described here.

2.1.1 Human-Computer Interface (HCI)

Human–computer interaction (HCI) is the study, planning and design of the interaction between
people (users) and computers [1]. Interaction between users and computers occurs at the user
interface (or simply interface), which includes both software and hardware; for example,
characters or objects displayed by software on a personal computer's monitor, input received
from users via hardware peripherals such as keyboards and mice, and other user interactions with
large-scale computerized systems such as aircraft and power plants.

Due to the multidisciplinary nature of HCI, people with different backgrounds contribute to its
success. HCI is also sometimes referred to as man–machine interaction (MMI) or computer–
human interaction (CHI). Professional practitioners in HCI are usually designers concerned with
the practical application of design methodologies to real-world problems. Their work often
revolves around designing graphical user interfaces and web interfaces. Researchers in HCI are
interested in developing new design methodologies, experimenting with new hardware devices,
prototyping new software systems, exploring new paradigms for interaction, and developing
models and theories of interaction [2].

2.1.2 Brain Computer Interface

A brain–computer interface (BCI), sometimes called a direct neural interface or a brain–machine

interface (BMI), is a direct communication pathway between the brain and an external device.
The field of BCI research and development is focused primarily on neuroprosthetics applications
that aim at restoring damaged hearing, sight and movement. Because of cortical plasticity of the
brain, signals from implanted prostheses can, after adaptation, be handled by the brain like
natural sensor or effecter channels. Following years of animal experimentation [3], the first
neuroprosthetic devices implanted in humans appeared in the mid-nineties.

Researchers have built devices to interface with neural cells and entire neural networks in
cultures outside animals. As well as experiments on cultured neural tissue have focused on
building problem-solving networks, constructing basic computers and manipulating robotic
devices. Electroencephalography (EEG) is the recording of electrical activity along the scalp)
and one of the most studied potential non-invasive BCI interface [2]. Magnetoencephalography
(MEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have both been used successfully as
non-invasive BCIs [2].

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

Figure1 (a). Human-Computer Figure 1 (b). Brain Computer Interface

Interface (HCI) [4] (BCI) [5]

2.1.3 Virtual Reality and Haptic Technology

Virtual reality (VR) is a term that applies to computer-simulated environments that can simulate
physical presence in places in the real world, as well as in imaginary worlds. Most current virtual
reality environments are primarily visual experiences, displayed either on a computer screen or
through special stereoscopic displays. Haptic technology, or haptics, is a tactile feedback
technology that takes advantage of a user's sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations, and/or
motions to the user. This mechanical stimulation may be used to assist in the creation of virtual
objects for control of such virtual objects, and for the enhancement of the remote control of
machines and devices (teleoperators) [6].

"Tactile Touchpad" design is introduced in the personal computers with button functionality and
haptic feedback incorporated into the tracking surface. Also tactile haptic feedback is becoming
common in cellular devices. In most cases this takes the form of vibration response to touch.

Haptics are adding the sense of touch to previously visual-only solutions. Systems are also being
developed to use haptic interfaces for 3D modeling and design that are intended to give artists a
virtual experience of real interactive modeling. Researchers from the University of Tokyo have
developed 3D holograms that can be "touched" through haptic feedback using "acoustic
radiation" to create a pressure sensation on a user's hands [7].

Various haptic interfaces for medical simulation may prove especially useful for training of
minimally invasive procedures (laparoscopy/interventional radiology) and remote surgery using
teleoperators. Robotics industry also utilizes the haptic technology to get the sense of touch,
pressure, and position to reproduce the human grip in all its strength, delicacy, and complexity.
Designers may use high-degree of freedom input devices that give touch feedback relating to the
"surface" they are sculpting or creating, allowing faster and more natural workflow than with
traditional methods

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

Figure 2. Usage of haptic technology in different fields [8, 9]

2.1.4 Graphic Visualization

Visualization is any technique for creating images, diagrams, or animations to communicate a

message. Visualization through visual imagery has been an effective way to communicate both
abstract and concrete ideas. Visualization today has ever-expanding applications in science,
education, engineering (e.g. product visualization), interactive multimedia, medicine, etc. The
invention of computer graphics are may be the most important development in the visualization
industry. Computer graphics has from its beginning been used to study scientific problems.
Scientific visualization is the transformation, selection or representation of data from simulations
or experiments, with an implicit or explicit geometric structure, to allow the exploration, analysis
and understanding of the data. Some of the most popular examples of scientific visualizations are
computer-generated images that show real spacecraft in action, out in the void far beyond Earth,
or on other planets [2].

2.2 Modern Integrated Devices

The concept of computing devices with data input and output on a flat information display have
even existed back in the 19th century and recent advancements in the technology have
completely changed the scenario. Traditional computers including desktops and workstations are
being replaced by laptops, notebooks, iPads, and tablets. A tablet is a complete mobile computer,
larger than a mobile phone integrated into a flat touch screen. It often uses an onscreen virtual
keyboard or a digital pen rather than a physical keyboard. The iPad is a line of tablet computers
primarily used as a platform for audio-visual media including books, periodicals, movies, music,
games, and web content.
Smart phones are one of the examples of these advanced tools. A smart phone is a high-end
mobile phone that offers more advanced computing ability and connectivity than a contemporary
feature phone (i.e. a modern low-end phone). A smart phone combines the functions of a
personal digital assistant (PDA) and a mobile phone. Today's models typically also serve as
portable media players and camera phones with high-resolution touch screen, GPS navigation,
Wi-Fi and mobile broadband access. So if someone doesn’t have a desktop or laptop with him,
he can always rely on a cell phone. A wide range of instruments (accelerometers, inclinometers,
light sensors, noise sensors and many more) integrated with more 3D displays may prove to be
very handy for a structural engineer in the field by reducing a lot of effort quiet accurately [2].

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

2.3 Information and Data Access

2.3.1 Mobility, Connectivity and Access Technologies

Because of the emergence of modern mobility, connectivity and access technologies over the last
few decades, information, and data sharing, access and transfer has gone through a revolutionary
change. Whole world is now considered as global village because of these fast track
technologies. Internet, intranet, remote desktop, VPN, WLAN, wireless technology, 3G, 4G,
GPS, GPRS, Cable TV, WiMax, Mobile Broadband and many other innovative techniques has
made it possible to access any sort of knowledge within such a limited time which was not even
imaginable in the past.

2.3.2 Cloud Computing

Typically, in client-server computing, a network-friendly client version of the application was

required on client computers which utilized the client system's memory and CPU for processing.
Multiple user licenses of an application were purchased for use by many users on a network.
Cloud computing differs from the classic client-server model by providing applications from a
server that are executed and managed by a client's web browser, with no installed client version
of an application required. Centralization gives cloud service providers complete control over the
versions of the browser-based applications provided to clients, which removes the need for
version upgrades or license management on individual client computing devices. Users may
remotely store and access personal files such as music, pictures, videos, and bookmarks; play
games; or do word processing on a remote server. Data is centrally stored, so the user does not
need to carry a storage medium such as a DVD or USB flash drive. Desktop applications that
connect to internet-host email providers may be considered cloud applications, including web-
based email services. As compared to the traditional techniques, cloud computing is more
flexible, mobile, highly automotive and cost effective technique. [10]

Figure 3: Cloud computing logical diagram [11]

2.3.3 Social and Professional Networks

Social and professional networks are considered one of the main sources of information transfer.
Networks like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn etc. have made it possible to get in touch with
family, friends and work groups around the clock, no matter where you are. Online journals,
blogs, newsgroups, Wikipedia and several search engines are available to find the relevant
information in abundance. Google maps and Google earth can guide us to any part of the world
and even it is possible to upload structures related information in Google Earth

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

2.3.4 Operating Systems and Platforms

An operating system (OS) is software, consisting of programs and data that runs on computers,
manages computer hardware resources, and provides common services for execution of various
application software. The operating system is the most important type of system software in a
computer system. Operating systems are found on almost any device that contains a computer,
from cellular phones and video game consoles to supercomputers and web servers. Examples of
popular modern operating systems are: Android, BSD, Linux, Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows,
and Unix, each offering its own specific advantages and domains of applications.

2.4 Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the intelligence of machines. John McCarthy (1956) defines it as
"the science and engineering of making intelligent machines."[12] AI textbooks define the field
as "the study and design of intelligent agents" where an intelligent agent is a system that
perceives its environment and takes actions that maximize its chances of success [13]. Since the
evolution of this field a lot of work has been done. Pamela McCorduck (2004) [14] writes of "the
rough shattering of AI in subfields—vision, natural language, decision theory, genetic
algorithms, robotics ... and these with own sub-subfield—that would hardly have anything to say
to each other." In the computing field, Artificial Neural Networks, Fuzzy Logic, Genetic
Algorithms, Optimization etc. are some important and powerful tools applied to solve difficult
problems with a different and appealing approach.

2.5 Building and Construction Engineering Computing Standards

With the increasing interest in building information modeling in the industry, various model-
based applications have been introduced to facilitate the professionals. Building Information
Modeling (BIM) is the process of generating and managing building data during its life cycle
[15]. BIM design tools allow for extracting different views from a building model for drawing
production and other uses. Typically it uses three-dimensional, real-time, dynamic building
modeling software to increase productivity in building design and construction [16]. IFC
(Industry Foundation Classes) are a vendor-neutral data repository for building information
models (BIM) including both geometry and properties of ‘intelligent' building objects and their
relationships, thus facilitating the sharing of data across otherwise incompatible
applications.[17]. Another tool used in the computing field is OpenSees. OpenSees, (the Open
System for Earthquake Engineering Simulation), is an object-oriented, open source software
framework. It allows users to create finite element applications for simulating the response of
structural and geotechnical systems subjected to earthquakes [18]

3 APPLICATIONS IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

3.1 Basic Computing Problems and Issues in Structural Engineering

The practicing structural engineers are involved in a broad spectrum of activities and tasks, such
as:
a) Conception, selection, and development of structural systems, suitable for a particular
application
b) Preliminary sizing and design of structural components
c) Coordination and collaboration with several other disciplines to consider their
requirements, such as with architects, mechanical and services engineers, electrical
engineers, geotechnical engineers, etc.
d) Structural modeling and analysis
e) Detailed design of structural components

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

f) Performance based evaluations, design of strengthening and retrofitting systems

g) Detailing and drafting to produce construction drawings and documents
h) Support during construction to tackle changes and issues arising after design

The academia and the researchers in structural engineering are also involved in:
i) Teaching and professional training
j) Research, development and testing of new materials, systems and technology
k) Research and development of new computing methodologies and tools
l) Simulations and monitoring
Most of the activities (a-k), are not only suitable for computer applications, but can be greatly
enhanced by the use and application of the new technologies, tools and devices described in
section 2 above. Some of the possibilities of using the new computing developments, in the basic
activities and tasks performed by the structural engineers are discussed below.

3.2 Structural System Development and Preliminary Design

Key to be successful in a structural engineering project is to start of well. The very basic step at
the start of almost every structural project is the selection of an appropriate structural system and
the preliminary design of the structural components. By applying the artificial intelligence into
use different effective tools like Artificial Neural Networks, Fuzzy Logic or Optimization can be
taken into account to get an optimum solution while choosing the structural system and going
through the preliminary designing. Also expert systems and standards like BIM can be very
helpful to go through different details of a structural system and to check the behavior of
structure after the preliminary design.

3.3 Structural Modeling, Analysis and Design

Modern computing techniques and devices can play a vital role to make the life of a structural
engineer easier. As discussed earlier, currently most of the structural engineers are using the
traditional computing programs and techniques to solve their problems specially while designing
their structures. In traditional computing programs it is difficult to input data for modeling,
analyze data and also to interpret data. Modeling of structures is a basic and difficult task to
perform while designing and a lot of importance must be given while modeling a structure. By
introducing the advanced modeling techniques like 3D modeling and even 4D modeling in the
field of structural engineering, a totally different dimension and concept of modeling can be
achieved.

Application of virtual reality concept in the field of structural engineering can be a ground-
breaking step in understanding the fundamental nature of problems related to structures. VR can
help to stimulate environments that can stimulate physical presence of structures. Using VR,
structure’s stimulation can be observed either on computer screen or through special stereoscopic
display which may enhance the understanding of the structural engineers towards solving the
problems related to the modeling and designing of structures. Additionally, just like in case of
medical and gaming applications, introduction of haptic systems or interfaces for structural
simulation may prove useful for training and understanding the nature of issues related to
structures

Another dilemma for structural engineers is to visualize the results or output of the analysis
carried out on structures. Sometimes even after a successful analysis, it is difficult to present the
output in an understanding way. For this purpose visualization is a technique that be applied to
communicate a message by creating images, diagrams or animations. One of the most important
outcomes in the visualization is the invention of computer graphics which may help an engineer
or user to transform, select and represent his data from simulations or experiments via
visualization. This technique is helpful to explore, analyze and understand the data.

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

3.4 Detailing, Drafting, Construction

In order to understand and visualize the structures in a more realistic way, it is highly desirable
for a structural engineer to generate a Building Information Model or BIM. BIM is the process of
developing building model which is used in presenting and visualizing building components,
construction sequences, resource allocation and other disciplines of construction process in a
virtual environment. BIM process generates 3D Model encompassing geometric and geographic
information of the building and properties of its components. Using BIM, structural detailing
drawings can be produced more quickly. Through the process of BIM and integrated project
delivery, structural designers can keep away from costly clashes by examining beams, pipes,
HVAC and electrical systems before the commencement of the construction. BIM may not only
help to optimize parameters of the structural model at par with the design rules but also more
purified engineering design can be made on sound theory minimizing rough calculations.
Integrated modeling, analysis and design can be achieved without splitting up the tasks. Another
important advantage of BIM is that more attention can be given to cost factors by studying
alternative solutions on one model and hence better and optimized construction can be obtained
solutions [19]

3.5 Collaborative Research, Design and Communication

For a better construction it is always essential to have a good cooperation among all the
departments involved in the construction. This can reduce the chances of clashes among the
different construction units. BIM models can be exchanged easily among the architectural
designer and HVAC designer which creates better cooperation.

3.6 Development and Use of Software

With the development in the computing industry, a wide range of software is generated for
structural engineers to help them out in various tasks. Now, with the help of computing software,
it is possible to perform various activities in a shorter period of time like preliminary designing,
modeling and analysis, graphical representation and visualization of the output of analysis,
generating Building Information Model or BIM to present and visualize building components,
construction sequences, resource allocation and other disciplines of construction process in a
virtual environment. ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD Pro. CSICOL, Auto CAD, Google Sketch up
and much other software serve the above mentioned purposes.

Traditional structural engineering software are developed for Windows, and for Pcs. However,
in future applications for hand held devises, smart phones, tables and support for other new user
interface paradigms and devices needs also to be developed to take full advantage of these
technologies.

3.7 Teaching and Professional Development

Advancement in computing technologies is equally beneficial for the industry as well as

academic field. Innovate and modern computing technologies can be adopted in academic
institutions for teaching, professional training research and development of new technologies.
Usage of haptic interfaces for structural simulation may prove especially useful for training and
to know the behavior of structure. Using this technology, structural modeling may take a totally
new shape as whole structure can be seen as a 3D model. Many such properties in which
structural engineers are interested, like stress, stiffness, deformation etc., may be calculated far
more precisely than the traditional computing methods. BIM and other modern software may
prove to be a very handy tool for training and teaching about the detailing, drafting, construction
details and sequence. By introducing modern integrated computing devices, like smartphones,

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

tablets and touch screen interfaces, the interaction problems between the user and computing
devices can be minimized. Modern integrated devices may result in high-degree of freedom input
allowing faster and more natural workflow than with traditional methods and it may help to
understand the structural behavior, to input structural details more precisely and to recognize the
outcome of the analysis. Because of social and professional networks one can get in touch to the
relevant groups and platforms to gather the required information and knowledge transfer. Cloud
computing has provided a real advantage of accessing data no matter where you are thus no need
to carry all the data by instructors while travelling to remote sites.

3.8 Modeling Techniques (Mesh Less Methods for Structural Analysis)

During and after the design stages different levels of numerical solid and fluid simulations are
performed on the object. Very often this involves using the Finite Element Method (FEM) where
the geometry is represented by piecewise low order polynomials. This practice introduce either
significant approximation errors or fine FEM models with a large number of finite elements that
make the numerical simulation computational costly. Also, a huge amount of effort (about 80%
of total time is spent on mesh generation) have to be spent in order to remodel the object into a
suitable finite element mesh. This information transfer between models suitable for design
(CAD) and analysis (FEM) is considered being a severe blockage.

To address this issue Hughes et al. (2005) [20] introduced an analysis framework which is based
on NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines), which is standard technology employed in CAD
systems. They propose to match the exact CAD geometry by NURBS surfaces, and then
construct a coarse mesh of Spline Elements. Throughout, the solution space for dependent
variables is represented in terms of the same functions which represent the geometry. For this
reason, they denote it isogeometric analysis.[21]

3.9 Performance Based Design

The traditional codes are developed for low and medium rise buildings whose responses are
typically dominated by first translational mode. These codes use the global force reduction
factors which cannot predict accurately for the structures with significant inelastic response,
especially in tall buildings. Furthermore, the traditional codes attempt to satisfy implicitly the
performance objectives whereas the performance based design explicitly mentions in such a way
that the design satisfies the performance objectives for different levels of earthquakes.

Performance Based Design as a logical design process is one of popular tools to give a solution
to achieve a specified performance. Seismic performance evaluation ensures that during a
defined earthquake, no damage beyond the acceptable limits occurs in any part of the structure.
A performance level describes a limiting damage condition which may be considered satisfactory
for a given building or part of the building for a given ground motion. The limiting condition is
described by the physical damage within the structure, the threat to life safety of the building’s
occupants created by the damage, and the post-earthquake serviceability and repair of the
building. Structural performance levels include Immediate Occupancy (IO), Life Safety (LS) and
Collapse Prevention (CP) as discrete damage states and used directly in evaluation.

The building is designed using the linear elastic design for the DBE response spectrum and is
checked at three level of earthquake demands; service/frequent earthquake, DBE and MCE. The
overall building response and the structural components shall fulfill the “Life Safety”
performance level at DBE level and “Collapse Prevention” performance level at MCE level.

3.10 Structural Instrumentation and Monitoring

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 50th ASEP Anniversary International Convention & Exposition, “Safer, Smarter & Greener”
Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

The development of integrated sensors, RFID, GPS, wireless and other technologies can be, and
are being used for real-time monitoring of the structural response, both for ambient conditions
and during events such as string winds, earthquakes, moving loads, temperature and moisture
changes etc. These sensors can also be employed to track and monitor the time dependent
phenomena such as shrinkage, creep, concrete aging, degradation, ionization, chlorine attack etc,
and link these inputs to the structural models to produce meaningful response that can be
communicated to the owners, public, and the researches in real time.

3.11 Smart Materials

Wenwu et al. (1999) [22] stated that a smart structure is a system containing multifunctional
parts that can perform sensing, control, and actuation; it is a primitive analogue of a biological
body. Smart materials are used to construct these smart structures, which can perform both
sensing and actuation functions. Commonly encountered smart materials and structures can be
categorized into three different levels: (i) single-phase materials, (ii) composite materials, and
(iii) smart structures. Many ferroic materials and those with one or more large anomalies
associated with phase-transition phenomena belong to the first category. Functional composites
are generally designed to use nonfunctional materials to enhance functional materials or to
combine several functional materials to make a multifunctional composite. The third category is
an integration of sensors, actuators, and a control system that mimics the biological body in
performing many desirable functions, such as synchronization with environmental changes, self-
repair of damages, etc. These three levels cover the general definition of smart materials and
structures. Smart structures are an integration of sensors, actuators, and a control system. Apart
from the use of better functional materials as sensors and actuators, an important part of a
‘‘smarter’’ structure is to develop an optimized control algorithm that could guide the actuators
to perform required functions after sensing changes.

Smart materials have properties that can be significantly changed in a controlled fashion by
external motivations or stimuli, such as stress, temperature, moisture, pH, electric or magnetic
fields. A wide range of smart materials is available which can be useful if used by structural
engineers. Piezoelectric materials are materials that produce a voltage when stress is applied.
Shape memory alloys and shape memory polymers are materials in which large deformation can
be induced and recovered through temperature changes or stress changes (pseudoelasticity).
Magnetostrictive materials and Magnetic shape memory alloys exhibit change in shape under the
influence of magnetic field and also exhibit change in their magnetization under the influence of
mechanical stress. Temperature-responsive polymers are materials which undergo changes upon
temperature. Chromogenic systems change colour in response to electrical, optical or thermal
changes. These include electrochromic materials, which change their color or opacity on the
application of a voltage (e.g. liquid crystal displays), thermochromic materials change in color
depending on their temperature, and photochromic materials, which change color in response to
light—for example, light sensitive sunglasses that darken when exposed to bright sunlight. Self-
healing materials have the intrinsic ability to repair damage due to normal usage, thus expanding
the material's lifetime. Dielectric elastomers (DEs) are smart material systems which produce
large strains (up to 300%) under the influence of an external electric field [22].

4 CONCLUSIONS
During the last few decades, revolutionary advancement is going on in various fields and professions
related to computing hardware and software and its applications. Remarkable efforts are being done in
various walks of life to absorb this innovatory change and to make best use of the modern computing
technologies and devices. The effect of this progression is very obvious and evident in our lives and we
can observe these modern techniques and devices everywhere around us like internet, intranet, smart
phones, tablets, GPS, GPRS, new operating systems, social and professional networks, cloud computing
and many more. Apart from the fact that structural engineers were in fact one of the pioneers and

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Technical Proceedings ISSN 1656-7757, September 28-30, 2011 Makati City, Philippines

originators of application of computing systems and methods (like Finite Element Method), it seems that
in structural engineering the modernization of computing techniques and devices have not kept pace with
the. Many other professions and field have adapted modern computing practices very swiftly. Medical
science is one of the examples where these practices have brought astonishing development and ease. The
obstacles in structural engineering are numerous and complex, and just like medical sciences also related
to safety and livability of human beings. Introduction of modern computation methods and devices in
structural engineering can be very handy and useful, resulting in amazing ease for structural engineers in
terms of solving complex nature problems. Therefore, for structural engineers, it is need of the hour to
embrace modernized computing techniques and devices, not only to generate and provide answers to ever
increasing number and nature problems but also to match up with the pace of the development booming
around us.

This paper has presented some of the areas where the structural engineering profession and the academia
can make use of the new developments in the computing tools and technologies to improve the use the
computers for selection of structural systems, for modeling and analysis, and understating the structural
behavior, for design and detailing, for construction management, for collaborative work with other
colleagues and professionals involved in the projects, for conducting teaching and research into new
areas, developing new tools for structural applications, all, geared towards providing effective solutions to
building a safe and sustainable infrastructure, buildings and other built environment.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

First author is the Executive Director/CEO of AIT Consulting (AITC) and Director of Asian Center for
Engineering Computations and Software (ACECOMS), and member of the Structural Engineering faculty
at the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand. . He was involved in the establishment and the startup
activities of both, AITC and ACECOMS. He was the Managing Director of a civil and structural
engineering consulting firm in Pakistan for several years before joining AIT. He has extensive experience
in structural analysis and design, infrastructure design, performance based design of tall buildings, design
of bridges, project management and software development. He is the author of several software including
SDL, SYSDesigner, GEAR, BATS, and NichadCAD. He is also the main instructor in most of the
workshops and trainings. In addition to that he is the author of the book titled Understanding Cross-
Section. . He may be contacted at AIT Consulting. Tel: (+662)524 6866. E-mail: nanwar@ait.asia

Second author has done Masters in Structural Engineering from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)
Thailand in 2010 and now he is enrolled as a doctoral student in AIT.

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