Building Construction

Our report on the analysis of our structure

Project 1:

UNDERSTANDING FORCES IN SKELETAL STRUCTURES

In groups of 5, this project required us to construct a model tower using popsicle sticks, toothpicks, thread, pins and an A5 size base. No glue or adhesive materials were allowed. The tower had to be more than 30cm and the number of popsicle sticks were limited to 100. Once completed, the tower had to be subjected to a load test where the minimal load would be 1.25kg. The tower would be tested to see how much load it can carry until it's breaking point. Once it breaks, the efficiency of the tower must be calculated and a report was to be produced to analyse the structure. Through this assignment, I was able to apply the skeletal construction system in design as well as recognize it's implications in the design. Through the report, I was able to identify the issues of the design in terms of it's strength, stiffness and stability as well as forces, stress and strain.

This subject introduced us to structures in architecure by allowing us to understand the structural systems in construction technology in relation to historical and innovative buildings. This module mainly focused on solid, skeletal and surface construction systems and was analysed in terms of the loads and forces applied to it and how it affects the structure. Through this module, I am now able to identify the different structural systems in construction as well as understand the implactions of these systems in a design. I am also able to compare these structures and apply them in my projects. I am also able to identify the paths of the loads and forces that act on these systems as well as analyse the issues of strengths, stiffness and stability.

ARC2513

Building Construction 2

Our popsicle stick tower

Our popsicle stick tower after being subjected to load testing

Project 2:

UNDERSTANDING FORCES IN SOLID AND SURFACE STRUCTURES

In groups of 7, we were given solid construction to analyse. We were then required to propose three solid construction building and identify the different structural systems used in the building. We were then required to identify the loads, forces and materials of the building. We chose to study the Church of Seed in China. A physical model showing the different systems was to be produced as well in a suitable scale. We were also required to produce an A4 report on the failures and analysis of the model. Individually, we were required to produce a 2D detailed drawing to show different parts of the building in an A4 sheet. Through this assignment, I was able to identify the basic solid structural system in the building as well as differentiate the solid and surface construction systems in terms of the loads and forces that act on the structural elements. I am also able to recognise and apply the implications of the construction system in design and analyse the issues of strength, stiffness and stability.