- Author
- Wright, R. N.
- Title
- International Environment for Computer-Aided Engineering.
- Coporate
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
- Book or Conf
- Bridging the Generations: The Future of Computer-Aided Engineering. Proceedings. June 18-19, 1994, Pittsburgh, PA, 29-32 p., 1994
- Keywords
- computers | conformity assessment | education | standards
- Abstract
- The growth of information processing power to assist in the design, construction, and operation of constructed facilities, here termed Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), is anticipated to influence greatly what is constructed, how it is constructed, and the roles of engineers in the life cycle construction process. This paper looks at these issues from the perspective of the globalization of the construction enterprise: for state of the art constructed facilities there will be one, global market for construction products and services. How will this influence the development and use of CAE technologies? The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) seems much alive as this is written. GATT calls for the elimination of non-tariff barriers to trade in products and services. This suggests that CAE products and services will conform to international standards and will be accepted for use internationally when evaluated and approved by one of many recognized authorities. How will CAE producers be affected by the need to compete and be recognized internationally? Will innovations be encouraged or stifled? National organizations, such as the American Society of Civil Engineers, have played lead roles in the development of CAE. How will such organizations contribute to the international body of knowledge and practices, and how will they fund their activities? Finally, how will research, education and practice respond to the challenges and opportunities created by an international CAE environment?