Uses of Computers in Engineering

Computers and related technology are an integral part of our daily lives and are essential in the field of engineering too. Engineers are developing something or the other 24/7. Computers have contributed so much in the field of engineering and have been successful in doing so. If there were no computers or advanced technology, it would've been so much of a  hassle to manage all the work manually. 

You can't develop new ideas with old technology. Every Engineer needs a computer or any other system like laptops, tablets, etc. to make his work hassle free and save time. Computers have made it possible for engineers to work from wherever they want and whenever they want. This helps them to improve their productivity which results in a positive way.

Ten Uses of Computers in Engineering

Computers have endless uses. They can be used for literally everything that is there related to the field of engineering today, engineers rely on computers for much of the process. Using computers and especially computer software, engineers can design, test, and make changes to products in minimal time. Computers help them complete the task at hand much more quickly. Some of its uses are listed below:

• CAD: Computer-Aided Design or CAD is the process of designing new products with the help of computer software. The software helps engineers to take their ideas from a concept state to a model. This software allows engineers to bring their ideas to reality quickly. Speed helps engineers as the one who launches first in the market gets more benefits. 

• CFD: Computational Fluid Dynamics or CFD software has allowed engineers to do testing virtually. This allows them to note the pros and cons before launching it to the market. This also saves time because it allows the calculation of such effects without having to physically test them.

• File Sending: Prototyping is an important stage in product development. Engineers first create a model to test their functions, form, and fit. Some companies have in-house prototyping machines while others do outsourcing. Developers can upload their CAD files to websites and select what materials are needed.

• Alterations: For changing the designs, engineers had to open a blueprint, and in some cases have to make some changes or redo the entire thing. But with the help of computers, engineers can make the changes quickly within no time.

• Manufacturing New Products: Engineers manufacture new products on a daily basis. They can't just go and launch a product with faults in the markets as they'd have to suffer a backlash. Computers provide software which helps in manufacturing new products.

• Development of AI: Computer software helps in the development of AI and also allows them to fix some bugs, if there are any.

• Decreasing Processing Time: Computers offer decreased processing time. Computers allow large files to render in minimal time. This helps engineers to focus on other parts as well.

• Lowering Cost: Computers with good processors help in accomplishing the work in minimal time which saves cost and time as well.

• Security: Engineers have their data and ideas stored in computers that's why they need to be secured.

Importance of Computers in Engineering

The importance of computers in engineering changes according to the kind of engineers using them. Traditional engineering has three main branches:

• Civil Engineer

• Mechanical Engineer

• Electrical Engineer

Use of Computers in Civil Engineering

There are lots of uses of computers in civil engineering from making blueprints, designing infrastructure, constructing a building through the use of CAD with uses of computers in engineering design.

Making of a Bridge

Use of Computers in Mechanical Engineering 

Computers are used in designing graphics, and automated control of manufacturing. In mechanical engineering, big machines are integrated with high-end computers to perform tasks.

Mechanical Engineering Class

Use of Computers in Electrical Engineering

In electrical engineering, the power distribution is controlled and monitored through the use of smart computers which divert a load of heavy use in electricity consumption to overcome blackouts.

Electrical Engineering Sockets

Learning by Doing

1. Which of the following is the use of computers in engineering?

• CAD

• CFD

• Development of AI

• All of the above

2. What is the use of computers in civil engineering?

• Making blueprints

• Controlling power distribution

• Used in designing graphics

• Automated control of machinery

Sample Solved Questions

1. Computers play an essential role in engineering. Explain.

Computers play an essential role in engineering because computers have endless uses. It can work according to the needs of the user. Engineers may use it for their own benefit in ways like creating blueprints, securing some ideas or installing softwares for heavy machinery.

2. Why do civil engineers need computers?

Civil engineers need Computers because they use it for designing infrastructure, and constructing a building with the use of CAD software.

3. State any three uses of computers.

Three uses of computers are as follows:

• They are used for file sending.

• They are used for finding any faults and altering them before releasing it.

• They are used for manufacturing new products.

Summary

Computers are an integral part of engineering. Computers play different types of roles for different engineering industries. Computers are used for various purposes such as making blueprints, running machines with softwares, and diverting loads of electricity. Computers perform very important functions for the smooth working of engineers. Without the use of computers, engineers would have to face so much hassle.