College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Architectural Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 2
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Architectural Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 3
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Architectural Engineering
Date
12-2023
Primary Advisor
Anahid Behrouzi, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This Python programming manual is a resource to assist architectural, civil, or structural engineering students as they learn to create scripts to solve various structural analysis and dynamics problems. Beyond providing guidance on Python libraries that enable numerical and symbolic mathematics (NumPy, SciPy, SymPy), the manual also focuses on the creation of tabular and plot outputs useful to communicate results through technical reports (Pandas, Matplotlib).
The content of this document was developed based on detailed review of curriculum for three architectural engineering computing courses typically offered to upper class students at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo as well as surveys with students who had completed the courses and industry members. The authors recognize that programming is challenging enough without having to use a textbook with example problems from other unfamiliar technical fields or where each Python library has its own separate documentation website to navigate.
The document includes 24 chapters on how to use both the Spyder integrated development environment and a range of Python programming topics. The chapters include explanations, graphics, and examples related to structural engineering so that students can follow and apply programming skills to their coursework, but also appreciate its broader utility for their careers. The goal with this resource is to address students’ common knowledge gaps in Python along with building confidence and motivating them to learn how to program, better equipping them for success in the computing courses and in leveraging programming as a tool when they enter industry.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/arcesp/201
Python Manual Supplementary Materials