Engineering judgment is a key aspect of the design process, from initial concepts to detailed execution. Advances in computational methods—and more recently, artificial intelligence—have introduced new tools that broadly address three key challenges: prediction, optimisation, and automation. But how can these tools be combined with traditional methods? Should they be integrated, or is it better to keep them separate?
One option is to focus on enhancing existing workflows while maintaining the expertise of those best placed to interpret and validate results.
The Role of Engineering Judgment
Traditional modeling relies on expert judgment, supported by calculations and analysis, to ensure that designs meet safety and performance requirements. For complex cases, intuition allows engineers to quickly rule out unsuitable designs before deeper analysis.
This workflow is reliable and deterministic but often time-consuming. Experience helps engineers hone in more efficiently and effectively to reduce the number of designs that require full evaluation.
Automation as a Complement to Expertise
Rather than replacing engineering intuition, automation can supplement it, allowing rapid evaluation of multiple design scenarios. Engineers can rely on intuition to define the concept, while automation accelerates the assessment process.
For connection design, IDEA StatiCa enables users to explore a range of models through parametric design capabilities and its IOM interface.
- With parametric design, models can include adjustable parameters, which can be manually controlled or set up with built-in relationships.
- The IOM (Integration and Open Model) acts as a public API, seamlessly connecting IDEA StatiCa with various FEA and CAD applications. This enables direct tool integration, streamlining workflows and enhancing efficiency.
By combining engineering expertise with intelligent automation, engineers can improve efficiency, expand design exploration, and optimise performance—without compromising judgment or control.
