Structural Design I
The courses Structural Design I and II explain the fundamentals of how structures function. These courses put great emphasis on studying the relationship between the form of a structure and the internal forces within it by means of graphic statics.
Arches
This exercise involves arches and thrust lines. As it is the case for suspension cables, the arch shape also follows the load (thrust line). Therefore, all previous methods are also applicable to an arch. What is new are the initial investigations on support reactions.
Form-Finding with Constraints
If the form of a structure is to be found but limited by a certain condition (maximum internal force, maximum thrust, etc.), the trial funicular polygon and the closing string serve to find the form.
4.1 Thrust line: Trial funicular
4.2 Form-finding under specific constraints
Support reactions of arch structures
In these tasks, the support reactions of arches are investigated. Now two parabolic arches are juxtaposed. The middle support is thus loaded twice. The support conditions can be varied. The horizontal thrust is discussed for the first time.
Cathedral
In this creative task, we look at a cross-section of the central nave of a gothic cathedral. These tasks will help you appreciate the art of the Gothic master builders and follow their form-finding processes.
