Transcription: During the ancient and medieval eras, one of the most important engineering functions was the design of fortifications. Fortifications functioned to protect valuables from opposing armies. Ancient designs were simply a series of high vertical walls. The problems that needed to be solved were also simple. The designers needed to determine the amounts of dirt, stone, brick, and mortar that would be needed, the amount and sizes of timber, and the methods for getting the needed materials.