Engineering involves serious work that underpins every aspect of our lives, from the roads we drive on to the electricity that powers our homes. But the field isn’t all just serious topics. Read on to find out our leading engineering fun facts.
A civil engineer made water slides work
A civil engineer once created a pumping system that used just the right amount of water to make a water slide slippery. Without the proper circulation of water to the flume, a water slide won’t work and there wouldn’t be any ride. Engineers were also involved in the creation of water slides because they have to factor in how much people weigh, water flow and other factors.
Engineers are responsible for the technology behind TV and radio
In 1924, a lab in Japan created a sensitive and directional antenna, which was effective in higher-frequency uses. These antennae became important for everything from television to radar and radio.
Engineers created the snowboard
While you might be more focused on carving some sweet powder, the technology that allows you to do so was invented by an engineer. The snowboard wouldn’t exist without the meeting of geometry, biomechanics and chemistry. The best snowboards allow for finely tuned turning, and ski manufacturers have followed in the footsteps of the snowboard to allow riders to move with less effort.
The history of the word
The word “engineer” is derived from the Latin ingenium, which is loosely defined as “cleverness” or “native talent.” In previous centuries, “engineer” was used only to refer to war engines—that is, engineers who built fortresses and weapons.
Engineers are responsible for the Ferris wheel
The first Ferris wheel was invented by George Ferris in 1893. The Pittsburgh engineer created two 140-foot towers that were connected by a 45-foot axle. It was the single largest piece of forged steel to be created at the time.
Mt. Everest is named after an engineer
The namesake of Mt. Everest is George Everest, the surveyor general for the British Empire. He made substantial contributions to the measurement of the Indian meridian arc. Everest started at the southern tip of India and went all the way into the foothills of the Himalayas.
Engineers have created special effects for iconic films
Computer engineers have worked with animators to create special effects for movies enjoyed around the world like Forrest Gump and Jurassic Park. Through technology referred to as “morphing,” digitally mastered images are made to appear more realistic.
Engineers have contributed to athletic achievements
Sports engineers are responsible for examining how physical movement interacts with technical equipment. Engineers design everything from tennis rackets and skis to running shoes and sportswear.
Here at Mason & Associates, we can’t get enough of engineering fun facts. That’s because our team is fully committed to providing civil engineering and surveying services that are second to none. We handle it all, including subdivision planning, boundary surveying, staking projects and more. Let us take care of all of your engineering needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
