There I Fixed It is a tremendous site where users submit images of innovative engineering feats.  These range from drawing a warm bath over a camp fire to roasting a dozen hotdogs on the fingers of a metal rake to duct taping flashlights to front bumper of a car.

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Engineering is the application of understanding.

An engineer encounters a problem, researches the causes, investigates ways to remedy the problem, and then designs and implements a solution.

I have tried to answer the question “Why do I enjoy engineering so much?” for a really long time and have finally realized that it’s not one particular aspect.  Instead, it’s the process as a whole.  For an engineer, a project is a complete scientific discovery from start to finish.

Curiosity, Learning, Understanding, Expression and, finally, Application.

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It’s amazing to see how people can make incredible improvements to everything around them often with very limited resources.  One blog that consistently appeals to people (especially other engineers) because of this is Afrigadget.  This blog highlights innovations in rural African communities, both by local people and outside inventors.  These innovations are often surprisingly simple but always technical, and never fail to impress.  Engineers of all types and from all locations can learn from the simplicity and creativity highlighted in this blog.

Some of my Favorites

A shopkeeper has recycled old sandals to hang the door to his shop.  This creates a sturdy mount that is hinged and spring-loaded by the flexible footwear to ensure the front door closes behind his customers.

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