Title: Engineering in Plain Sight: An Illustrated Field Guide to the Constructed Environment
Author: Grady Hillhouse
Original Publish Date: November 1, 2022
ISBN-13 URL: 978-1718502321
Amazon ASIN: 171850232X
Link to the book on Amazon.com: Engineering in Plain Sight on Amazon
Genre: Non-fiction, Engineering
Engineering in Plain Sight by Grady Hillhouse serves as a visually engaging field guide that demystifies the infrastructure and engineered structures we encounter daily. Through detailed illustrations and accessible explanations, the book encourages readers to appreciate and understand the complexities of the built environment that often go unnoticed.
Grady Hillhouse's Engineering in Plain Sight offers readers an insightful exploration into the myriad structures that constitute our constructed world. The book begins by delving into the electrical grid, elucidating the components and mechanisms that power our homes and industries. Hillhouse breaks down complex systems into comprehensible segments, making the intricate web of power generation and distribution accessible to non-engineers.
Transitioning to communications infrastructure, the author sheds light on the networks that facilitate our daily interactions. From cell towers to fiber optics, Hillhouse provides a clear understanding of how information traverses vast distances, connecting individuals across the globe. His explanations demystify the technology that underpins modern communication, highlighting the engineering feats that make it possible.
The narrative then moves to transportation systems, examining roadways, bridges, tunnels, and railways. Hillhouse discusses the design and construction principles that ensure the safety and efficiency of these essential infrastructures. He emphasizes the meticulous planning and engineering required to accommodate the dynamic nature of human mobility, offering readers a newfound appreciation for the roads and transit systems they use daily.
Water management structures, including dams, levees, and municipal water systems, are also explored in depth. Hillhouse explains how these constructions control water flow, prevent flooding, and provide essential services like clean drinking water and wastewater treatment. His detailed illustrations and explanations highlight the critical role of engineering in managing natural resources and protecting communities.
Throughout the book, Hillhouse's engaging writing style and informative visuals transform complex engineering concepts into relatable knowledge. By unveiling the intricacies of the built environment, he inspires readers to observe and appreciate the engineering marvels that surround them, fostering a deeper connection to the often-overlooked aspects of daily life.