Exploring the World of Innovation in Bridge Construction

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed In this episode, we talk with Logan Mullaney, president of InQuik USA, about the journey of InQuik from Australia to the USA and the development of their innovative bridge construction system. He also discusses the challenges faced in commercializing the system and the importance of academic research in improving and validating technology. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Logan: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Logan:
What is InQuik, and how does it differ from traditional bridge-building methods? What were the major challenges you encountered in developing and commercializing the bridge system? How do you adapt to varying geographic and environmental conditions? Can you share details about your research projects and how they’ve shaped the evolution of the InQuik Bridge system? How does the InQuik Bridge system impact structural engineering practices, considering collaboration with jurisdictions, test reports, and special detailing? What advice do you have for aspiring structural engineers or future contractors aiming to make a mark in the field of structural engineering or bridge construction? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Exploring the World of Innovation in Bridge Construction: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Exploring the World of Innovation in Bridge Construction:
InQuik transforms bridge construction with its lightweight prefab components, simplifying installation for local workers. Weighing only 9,000 pounds for a 40-foot unit, it streamlines the process, providing ready-made abutments, bent caps, deck units, and more for efficient and reliable bridge building. Introducing a new product in structural engineering is tough due to skepticism. For a reinforced concrete bridge system, familiarity helps. Engineers prefer proven tech, making it a challenge to be the first to adopt it. Initial resistance can turn into an endorsement with successful use. The lesson is that patience, transparency, and proof are crucial for acceptance in a traditional industry. The bridge system’s design is versatile, catering to 95% of scenarios without constant adjustments. It adapts to diverse conditions, from load capacities to seismic requirements. In seismic areas, reliance on integral abutment moment capacity is avoided to prevent structural issues. The streamlined design uses the same deck unit for various structures, simplifying foundation considerations. While open to tweaks, the engineers follow a one-size-fits-most philosophy in tackling bridge design complexities. Academic research played a crucial role in understanding their innovative system. They explored misconceptions like leaving formwork in place to slow curing and strengthen the concrete over time. The research addressed concerns about fatigue and welding, debunking worries about long-term design life. Thorough testing, engagement with different codes, and advocating for revisions solidified their success. Independent academic research, more impactful than consultant reports, not only validated but improved their system based on university insights. Innovation is vital for changing traditions in the industry. There’s a clear openness to adopting new tech for resilient and cost-effective infrastructure. To tackle talent competition, efficient methods like modular design and automation are crucial. These speeds up project delivery, freeing up engineers for more creative tasks. The influx of enthusiastic young engineers adds excitement for the industry’s future. Entering the sector with accidental innovation, the key lesson is understanding your peers and what drives them. To make an impact in engineering or construction, it’s crucial to approach others strategically, considering their interests and motivations. Success comes from aligning with innovative minds in the field, avoiding those stuck in outdated approaches. Recognizing the challenges and positioning oneself strategically among like-minded individuals is essential for success. More Details in This Episode…
More Details in This Episode…

About the Guest: Logan Mullaney About the Guest: Logan Mullaney
Logan is an experienced business leader and inventor with a unique background in the construction industry. As president of InQuik USA, Logan draws on his extensive experience as managing director of InQuik Australia, where he co-invented elements of the patented construction system alongside his father and uncle. Leading a team of just three people in 2017, Logan has since built the business alongside his brother, Ben, to a team of over 100 direct and indirect staff, with operations in Australia and the USA. Logan’s early career in carpentry and licensed building culminated in him founding his own general construction company at just 21 years of age. His involvement in modular construction projects and building containerized modular units in China 13 years ago further highlighted Logan’s innovative approach to construction. With a wealth of experience building bridges and structures around the world and contributing to numerous university research projects on the InQuik System, Logan has a great depth of knowledge in bridge construction and engineering. Despite not being formally trained as an engineer, Logan has a remarkable understanding of the industry and has played a pivotal role in the commercialization and development of the InQuik System since its inception in 2014. Logan is based in Boulder, Colorado, with his wife and three children, and leads the U.S. team as they grow across the country. About the Host: Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE About the Host: Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE
Mathew is a licensed engineer, practicing on structural projects in California, with an undergraduate degree from Cal Poly Pomona and an M.S. in Structural Engineering from UC San Diego. He has designed and managed various types of building structures, including residential wood apartment buildings, commercial steel buildings, and concrete parking structures and towers. He also hosts the new YouTube channel “Structural Engineering Life,” through which he promotes the structural engineering profession to engineering students who are not familiar with the industry perspective. Sources/References: Sources/References:
InQuik USA SMEC Modular Construction Method Pre-cast Concrete Method AASHTO Connect with Logan Mullaney on LinkedIn This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI
PPI has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, on-demand courses, and digital study tools, to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam. Check out PPI today at ppi2pass.com to see all the options available for FE and PE exam prep. Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on exploring the world of innovation in bridge construction. To your success, Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE Host of The Structural Engineering Podcast