Computational engineering

Author: Peter Debney

Date published

22 October 2020

Price

Standard: £69.95
Member: £44.95
Student Member: £34.95
 

PDF
The Institution of Structural Engineers The Institution of Structural Engineers
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Computational engineering

Guidance

Author

Peter Debney

Date published

22 October 2020

Author

Peter Debney

Price

Standard: £69.95
Member: £44.95
Student Member: £34.95
 

PDF

A practical and thought-provoking guide to computational engineering, helping structural engineers understand modelling, analysis, optimisation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning while ensuring sound engineering judgement remains central to decision-making.

Computational engineering is transforming structural engineering practice. From parametric design and finite element analysis to artificial intelligence and machine learning, new technologies are reshaping how structural engineers analyse, design, and optimise structures.  

Written by Peter Debney, this guidance balances theory, practical application, and professional judgement. It provides structural engineers with the knowledge needed to harness computational tools effectively while understanding their limitations and maintaining responsibility for engineering outcomes.  

Contents pages

Downloads

Computional-engineering-contents-pages.pdf (.pdf, 34 kB)
Prelims-Comp-eng.pdf (.pdf, 2.7 MB)

Key features:

  • Coverage of design, including parametric design  

  • Guidance on modelling and common modelling challenges  

  • Explanation of analysis methods including linear, nonlinear, and dynamic approaches  

  • Introduction to optimisation techniques  

  • Exploration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the future of engineering software  

Review
"I’ve been really impressed with Peter’s publication – clear, detailed descriptions of the underlying theory are balanced with practical advice and anecdotes, making it thoroughly useful for the practising engineer. I expect this will be become a first point of reference for our new graduates, and for experienced engineers dealing with more complex modelling approaches. "
Andrew Blackie
Price & Myers
Review
"This is the best structural engineering book I’ve read, irrespective of computation."
Stephen Melville
Format Engineers
Review
"Right from the first read, I could tell I'd be returning to this book on many occasions. This book is a must have for anyone."
Dan-Adrian Corfar
Doctoral Researcher

  • Structural engineers using computational and digital engineering tools 

  • Graduate structural engineers developing modelling and analysis skills 

  • Experienced structural engineers working with complex analytical methods 

  • Professionals using finite element analysis and digital modelling 

  • Structural engineers interested in artificial intelligence and future technologies 

What you will learn: 

  • How computational engineering supports structural design and analysis 

  • Principles of parametric design and digital workflows 

  • The strengths and limitations of modelling approaches 

  • Fundamentals of linear, nonlinear, and dynamic analysis 

  • How optimisation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are influencing engineering practice 

Additional information

Format:
Book (A4 print or PDF)
ISBN:
978-1-906335-44-1
Pages:
276
Publisher:
IStructE Ltd
Attachments:

Tags

Software BIM Guidance Structural analysis Best practice Technical Publications Panel Guides