Design Paradigms: Case Histories of Error and Judgment in Engineering - Softcover

Petroski, Henry

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521466490 ISBN 13: 9780521466493

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1994

Synopsis

From ancient Greek temples to twentieth-century towers, engineers have learned more about design from failure than success. The concept of error, according to the author, is central to the design process. As a way of explaining the enduring aspects of engineering design, he relates stories of some of the greatest engineering successes and failures of all time. These case studies, drawn from a wide range of times and places, serve as paradigms of error and judgment in engineering design. By showing how errors were introduced in the design process and how they might be avoided, the book suggests how better quality and reliability might be achieved in designed devices, structures, and systems of all kinds. Clearly written, with striking illustrations, the book will appeal to engineering students, practising engineers, historians of science and technology, and all those interested in learning about the process of design.

About this title

Review

'The reader will be well served, especially because the case histories are so interesting and well presented in themselves.' N. A. F. Smith, Nature

'Extremely well documented and illustrated ... Design Paradigms can be read by all those interested in engineering, not just structural engineers.' Tom Wyatt, New Scientist

'...excellent,it should be essential reading for every student, practising engineer and manager of engineering work.' Journal of Naval Engineering

'... will prove fascinating and intelligible to the non-technical reader.' Professor Ronald N. Bracewell, The Times Higher Education Supplement

'... a lively and informative read, it presents a dozen excellent case studies from 2000 years of structural engineering history, showing how engineers can learn from failures.' Bill Addis, New Scientist

Book Description

To explain the enduring aspects of engineering design, the author relates stories of some of the greatest engineering successes and failures of all time. These case histories, presented as paradigms for modern engineers, are intended to illuminate the design process and improve design practice.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 0521466490
• ISBN 13: 9780521466493
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 222