Unleash creativity through a structural model design competition.

The organizers presented awards to the outstanding teams. Photo: Contributor.

Design model challenge

At this year's structural model design competition, the K34H1V team from the Central Vietnam University of Civil Engineering (MUCE) presented a structural model with outstanding vibration resistance. Using wooden beams, the team assembled a truss-like structure. Under the impact of prolonged simulated vibrations – mimicking a real earthquake – the model remained intact , without damage or collapse. This model lasted the longest and won first prize, demonstrating meticulous planning, creative design, and a solid understanding of structural principles.

Nguyen Tan Huy, a MUCE student and captain of the K34H1V team, said: "My teammates and I have prepared quite thoroughly for this competition. The team members have applied the knowledge they have learned, as well as the support from the faculty, researched materials, etc., to create a solid model for the competition."

After several intense rounds of competition, the organizers awarded first prize to team K34H1V - MUCE, second prize to team Static squad - MUCE, third prize to team Học bá - MUCE, a consolation prize to team Luxury - MUCE, the most popular vote award to team Mùa thu Hà Nội - Nguyễn Huệ High School, and the architecture award to team 9.9 Richter - MUCE

Among the dozens of competing teams were students from high schools across the province. Although they may not have had extensive exposure to specialized knowledge in design and construction, they brought a fresh perspective with their passion for creativity. Their confidence, resourcefulness, and unwavering learning spirit contributed to making the competition richer, more engaging, and more vibrant.

Le Nguyen Bao Chau, a student from Le Hong Phong High School (Tay Hoa district), happily said: "I really enjoyed this competition. I learned many useful things such as teamwork, collaboration skills, and design experience from the older students. Although I didn't win the top prize, this was an opportunity for me to affirm my passion for design and will be the beginning of my future designs."

Motivating scientific research

This year's structural model design competition attracted nearly 60 teams with over 200 participants, including high school students from across the province and MUCE students. The submitted models not only showcased creativity but also demonstrated the results of honing critical thinking skills, teamwork, and applying engineering knowledge to real-world situations.

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Hai, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at MUCE, in the context of the increasingly rapid development and innovation in the construction industry, it is extremely necessary for students to have access to practical models like this. The structural models participating in the competition demonstrate the necessary technical solutions to create sturdy model structures from rods, combined with other materials to create connections. Contestants had to thoroughly research mechanical principles, use simulation and calculation tools to ensure the stability and safety of the models. Each product, each structural model that the students brought, is the culmination of their intelligence, passion, and spirit of continuous learning, and will be valuable experience for them throughout their studies and future careers.

Affirming the commitment to supporting and empowering the passion for scientific research and innovation among young people, Dr. Phan Van Hue, Rector of MUCE, stated: "The structural model design competition is not simply a technical playground, but a place to nurture creative ideas, cultivate passion, and inspire aspirations to become highly skilled and capable civil engineers in the future. For students, competing alongside university students helps them mature and influences their future career choices. This is also an opportunity for students to review their learned knowledge and improve any areas of professional expertise needed for future work. We hope the competition has motivated young people to pursue scientific research. In fact, over the years, the number of participants has steadily increased."

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