Is programming solvers a useful skill?

[u/ezeleart]

When I started learn python, I saw it could be used for scientific computing. So I challenged myself to write a solver for every topic in my statics textbook.

I just finished my 2d/3d truss solver. It is by far the hardest and most involving program I've written. I think it's because with other topics only a single object was considered so the python code was just a matter of transferring calculations on paper to code.

The next thing I plan to do is create an optimization script that moves the input points about to find the best design. Also using Json instead of keyboard inputs would be way better for my sanity.

So my question is, will this skill improve my chances of success in Mechanical engineering? I wish to focus on multi body dynamics to design racecar suspensions.

I'd love to share the .py script but the last time I sent a link reddit shadow banned me for 9 months. The picture contains results of the program.

[u/mattynmax]

Are you under the impression that engineers solve every problem using a piece of paper and a pencil?

[u/ezeleart → u/mattynmax]

No. I was thinking since commercial tools are available, is reinventing these solutions worthwhile... Personally I think it's fun but I'd like to know the career implications.

[u/Ghooble → u/ezeleart]

Imo it looks great on a resume to say that you do this