Optimización y eficiencia en los cálculos de ingeniería mediante hojas de cálculo

Abstract

Technical studies, such as degrees and master’s degrees in engineering, complicated subjects often contain many mathematical calculations and time-consuming calculation development in engineering problem-solving sessions. In particular we refer to the subjects of construction, hydrological engineering and geotechnics, where the subjects are extensive and resources dedicated to the calculations in the master classes do not allow deepening in concepts that are fundamental for the professional exercise. Spreadsheets are being used in common applications or simple calculations, but it has enormous potential for engineering applications, in particular for the above-mentioned subjects. The innovation project is oriented in two ways; The first is to provide students spreadsheets designed for different subject modules or complex calculations, on the other hand, there is the reverse problem, perform an engineering calculation or an automate calculations by a spreadsheets made by the student or group of students, improving competences of problems simplification and team work. Applications can be used in professional practice; they are improved year by year along the different designs provided. The experience was carried out in the following university studies: Degree in Agricultural and Rural Engineering (Universidad de La Laguna), Degree in Civil Engineering (Universidad de Alicante) and Master in Civil Engineering (Universidad de Alicante). This innovation project were part of the collaborative framework within the consolidated teaching innovation groups program of the Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), in particular the teaching innovation group IMAGINA, ULL and the Universidad de Alicante.