Copy of Copy of Elective - IX (3)
Copy of Copy of Elective - IX (3)
Introduction
A shell is a thin, curved structure where curvature plays a crucial role in its structural
performance, forming a spatial design. It functions both as a structural system and a covering,
typically made of reinforced concrete or other materials.
Load Transfer in Shell Structures
Shell structures efficiently transfer loads through their curved surfaces, ensuring stability and
strength while using minimal material.
Examples of Shell Structures
Sydney Opera House
Lotus Temple, New Delhi
Valencia Aquarium, Spain
JFK International Airport, New York
Kresge Auditorium, MIT
Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre
Types of Shell Structures
Shell structures are classified based on their surface geometry:
Surfaces of Revolution – Generated by rotating a profile around an axis.
Surfaces of Translation – Formed by combining concave and convex curves.
Ruled Surfaces – Created by moving a straight line in space, often seen in twisting towers
and cooling towers.
Materials Used in Shell Structures
Common materials for shell structures include:
Reinforced Concrete
Steel
Aluminum Alloys
Plastics
Glass
Timber
Advantages of Shell Structures
Lightweight construction
Suitable for large spans with minimal thickness
Reduced dead load, leading to an economical foundation and support system
Aesthetic appeal compared to other structural forms
Disadvantages of Shell Structures
Complex shuttering and formwork requirements
High precision needed for formwork accuracy
Requires skilled labor and careful supervision
The rise of the roof may create design challenges
LECTURE 27: TRUSSES AND SPACE FRAMES
Trusses:
Structural frameworks made of triangular units connected at nodes (bolted or welded using
gusset plates).
Can be 2D (Planar) or 3D (Prismatic).
Common materials: Timber, Steel, Aluminum.
Classification:
By Dimension: 2D Planar, 3D Prismatic
By Function: Roof Trusses, Bridge Trusses
Common Types:
King Post, Queen Post, Pratt, Howe, K-Truss, Warren, Bowstring, Baltimore
Advantages:Long spans, lightweight, minimizes deflection
Disadvantages:Increases building height, costly for small structures
Applications:Bridges, factory roofs, transit stations, canopies, stadiums, transmission
towers
Space Frames:
3D lattice structures with interconnected pyramidal or tetrahedral units.
Ensures optimal load distribution and structural stability.
Components:
Members (structural elements)
Connectors (Welded, Bolted, Threaded)
Common materials: Steel, Aluminum, Timber.
Classification:
By Curvature: Space Plane Covers, Barrel Vaults, Spherical Domes
By Arrangement: Flat/Multi-Layer Grids, Braced Barrel Vaults, Free-Form Structures,
Brace Domes
Advantages:Lightweight, prefabrication-friendly, strong and adaptable, aesthetic
appeal
Applications:Commercial buildings, auditoriums, skylights, canopies, toll booths, sports
stadiums
LECTURE 28: FOLDED PLATE STRUCTURES
Introduction:
Folded plates are flat slabs inclined in different directions and rigidly joined along edges,
carrying loads without additional beams.
They combine slab and beam action, acting as deep inclined beams stabilized against
buckling by adjoining plates.
Bending causes top compression and bottom tension; gravity loads may flatten plates,
requiring walls or frames for stability.
Edge beams help resist buckling at end panels.
Structural Behavior:
External forces transfer to the shorter edge of each folding element.
Reaction forces divide between adjacent elements.
Forces are ultimately transferred to the bearings.
Factors Affecting Folded Plate Performance:
Folding pattern and geometric shape
Choice of construction materials
Connection between folding planes
Design of end bearings
Materials Used:
Wood
Steel
Aluminum
Reinforced Concrete
Plastic
Glass
Types of Folded Plate Structures:
Folded Plate Surface Structures
Folded Plate Frame Structures
Spatial Folded Plate Structures
Applications:
Roof Structures
Wall Structures
Floor Structures
Staircases
Notable Examples:
Church of Notre Dame de Royan, France
Air Force Academy Chapel, USA
Yokohama International Port Terminal, Japan
Tempodrom, Berlin
Sint-Ritakerk, Harelbeke
State Farm Center, Illinois, USA
Sports Centre Mülimatt, Switzerland
Shenzhen Universiade Sports Center, China
Advantages:
Lightweight construction
Suitable for long spans without obstruction
Reduces material usage, lowering dead load and cost
Aesthetic appeal
Disadvantages:
Complex formwork requiring skilled labor and supervision
High accuracy needed in formwork
Increased rise leads to higher storey height
LECTURE 29: MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Introduction
Membrane structures are spatial structures made from tensioned membranes.
They rely on a tensioned membrane system, typically supported by cables or wires, for
structural stability.
Components of Membrane Structures
Fabric
Support Systems
Materials Used
Structural Coated Fabric
Mesh Cloth
Common materials include:
Polyesters
Vinyl-coated polyester
Vinyl-laminated polyester
PVC Fiberglass
PTFE-coated fiberglass
Woven PTFE
ETFE foil
Properties to consider:
Tensile Strength
Tear Strength
Adhesion Strength
Flame Resistance
Weight (Base & Finished)
Available Top Coatings
Resistance to Temperature Variations
Translucency
Structural Properties & Life Expectancy
Cost
Types of Membrane Structures
Mast Supported
Point Supported
Arch Supported
Frame Supported
Simple Saddle
Forms of Membrane Structures
Hypar
Conic
Barrel Vault
Inflatable
Examples of Membrane Structures
Oldenburg Stadium (Germany)
Olympic Stadium Munich (Germany)
Skysong at Arizona State University Campus (USA)
Wolfgang Meyer Sport Centre Hamburg (Germany)
The Millennium Dome (London, UK)
Queens Wharf, Auckland (New Zealand)
Advantages
Durable materials with longer life cycles
Less construction debris post-demolition
Customizable designs
Lightweight and flexible
High strength-to-weight ratio
Disadvantages
Poor rigidity
Stability issues if tension is lost
Poor thermal resistance and insulation
LECTURE 30: PNEUMATIC STRUCTURES
1. Introduction
Pneumatic structures use air pressure for shape and stability.
They are lightweight and easy to transport when deflated.
Typically have synclastic curvature (domes) but can also have anticlastic curvatures.
Stability relies on pressure differences between interior and exterior.
2. General Characteristics
Lightweight
Safe
Quick assembly & dismantling
Cost-effective
Good natural lighting
Beneficial for human health
3. Components
Envelope (membrane covering)
Cable system (supporting structure)
Pumping equipment (to maintain air pressure)
Entrance (airlocks for pressure stability)
Foundation
4. Materials
Envelope: Fiberglass, Polyester, ETFE, Nylon
Anchor System: Steel cables, Ballasts
5. Types of Pneumatic Structures
1. Air-Supported (Low Pressure)
Single-layer fabric dome supported by inside air pressure.
Requires continuous air supply and airlocks for door openings.
Vulnerable to wind load flutter.
2. Air-Inflated (High Pressure)
Tubular or cushion forms with high air pressure between fabric layers.
Does not require airlocks but needs continuous air supply.
Without pressure, stability is lost.
6. Applications
Sports & recreation centers
Exhibition & convention centers
Greenhouses
✔✔
7. Advantages
Lightweight and easy to transport
✔✔ Suitable for large spans without supports
Quick assembly and disassembly
✔ Cost-effective
Space-efficient when deflated
✖✖
8. Disadvantages
Requires continuous air pressure maintenance
✖✖ Fans must operate constantly
Poor insulation compared to solid structures
Shorter lifespan than rigid buildings
9. Notable Examples
Inflatable Teahouse (Kengo Kuma, Japan)
Eden Project (UK)
Yorkshire Diamond Pavilion (Norway)
Fuji Pavilion, Expo 70 (Osaka)
US Pavilion, Expo 70 (Osaka)
LECTURE 31: STRUCTURE AND ARCHITECTURAL FORMS
IN WINDY AREAS
1. Introduction
Wind is the movement of air due to temperature and atmospheric pressure differences.
2. Types of Wind
1. Prevailing Winds – Most frequent winds in a specific location or season.
2. Seasonal Winds – Driven by large-scale weather patterns.
3. Local Winds – Caused by local variations in temperature and pressure.
3. Types of Storms
Hailstorm
Thunderstorm
Sandstorm
Ice Storm
Tornado
Blizzard
Derecho Storm
Tropical Storm
Hurricane
4. Damaging Effects of High-Speed Winds
Structural Failures
Catastrophic Failures: Damage to foundations, steel frames, masonry houses, timber
houses, and reinforced concrete frames.
Component Failures: Roof sheeting, roof tiles, rafters, windows, doors, walls, cladding.
Connection Failures: Poor anchoring of roofing materials, verandahs, and patios.
Cyclones & Rain Damage: Extended heavy rain worsens structural damage.
5. Wind Load Considerations in Buildings
Windward Faces: Experience direct pressure.
Leeward & Lateral Faces: Experience suction effects.
Sloping Roofs: Can experience either pressure or suction depending on angle.
Projections (Eaves, Windows): Subjected to uplift forces.
6. Impact of Wind on Building Forms
Building Shape: Rounded, tapered, or streamlined shapes perform better in wind than flat-
faced buildings.
Building Spacing:
Row planning channels wind and increases pressure.
Zig-zag planning disrupts wind flow and reduces damage.
Tall Buildings: Experience greater wind pressure and require structural adaptations like
dampers.
7. Wind-Resistant Structural Forms
1. Hurricane-Resistant Structures
2. Spiral-Wind Resistant Structures
3. Dome-Shaped Structures
4. Pyramid-Shaped Structures
5. Egg-Shaped Structures
8. Notable Examples
Shanghai Tower (China) – Spiral design for wind resistance.
Desert Dome (Omaha, USA) – Dome shape for wind deflection.
Foster + Partners Pyramid Tower (Moscow, Russia) – Pyramid shape for stability.
The Egg (Albany, USA) – Egg shape for aerodynamic stability.
LECTURE 32: STRUCTURE AND ARCHITECTURAL FORMS
IN SEISMIC-PRONE AREAS
1. Introduction
Earthquakes occur due to sudden energy release in the Earth's lithosphere, generating
seismic waves.
Shaking can vary from mild to severe, leading to destruction.
2. Types of Faults (Earthquake Triggers)
1. Strike-Slip Fault – Horizontal movement of tectonic plates.
2. Reverse Fault – Plates move towards each other, pushing upwards.
3. Normal Fault – Plates move away from each other, causing downward displacement.
3. Effects of Earthquakes
Ground Motion – Shaking intensity affects structures.
Landslides – Ground instability causes soil displacement.
Ground Displacement – Movement along faults disrupts foundations.
Liquefaction – Saturated soil loses strength, causing structural collapse.
Tsunamis – Underwater quakes trigger massive waves.
Aftershocks – Secondary tremors further damage weakened buildings.
4. Reasons for Structural Failure
Soft Storey – Weak ground floor due to open spaces (e.g., parking).
Short Columns – Uneven heights cause stress concentration.
Inadequate Reinforcement Detailing – Weak joints lead to collapse.
Discontinuous Force-Resisting System – Interruptions in load paths.
Strong Beam-Weak Column – Leads to column failure.
Poor Material Quality – Weak structures cannot withstand tremors.
Building Adjacency – Insufficient gaps between buildings cause collisions.
5. Earthquake-Resistant Structural Design Considerations
Size of the BuildingExtreme height or length increases vulnerability.
Balanced proportions enhance stability.
Shape of the BuildingSimple, symmetrical shapes perform better.
Avoid irregular plans to prevent stress concentration and torsion.
Building Position & AdjacencyMaintain proper spacing between buildings to reduce
impact during quakes.
6. Earthquake-Resistant Structural Techniques
1. Shear Walls – Stiff vertical walls that resist lateral forces.
2. Structural Bracing – Diagonal braces strengthen frames.
3. Tube Structure – A rigid exterior frame resists seismic loads.
4. Seismic Dampers – Absorb and dissipate earthquake energy.
5. Base Isolation – Flexible bearings separate the building from ground motion.
6. Horizontal Bands – Reinforced concrete bands at different levels improve integrity.
7. Earthquake-Resistant Expansion Joints (ERJ) – Allow controlled movement between
connected structures.
LECTURE 33: STRUCTURE AND ARCHITECTURAL FORMS
IN FLOOD-PRONE AREAS
1. Introduction
Floods occur when water overflows and submerges dry land.
Causes: Heavy rainfall, storms, or rising water bodies.
Primary impacts: Damage to life, infrastructure (roads, bridges, sewage, buildings).
Secondary hazards: High winds, lightning, slope instability, and ground settlement.
2. Flood Load (Hydrostatic Load)
Lateral forces due to static and dynamic water pressure during floods.
Pressure from moving water currents can weaken buildings.
3. Causes of Building Damage in Floods
Flood Depth – Higher water levels cause more damage.
Flood Duration – Prolonged submersion weakens structures.
Soil Saturation & Uplift – Causes foundation instability.
Wave & Current Forces – Exerts horizontal pressure on structures.
4. Effects of Floods on Building Components
Foundation – Weakening due to soil erosion and saturation.
Walls – Water pressure causes cracks and collapse.
Roofs – Damage depends on material (e.g., thatched roofs are vulnerable).
Materials Affected: Earth, timber, concrete, steel, glass.
5. Flood-Resistant Building Design Strategies
Elevation of StructuresRaise habitable spaces above Base Flood Elevation (B.F.E.) to
avoid water damage.
Dry Flood ProofingPrevent water entry through waterproof barriers and coatings.
Wet Flood ProofingAllow controlled water flow through lower levels to reduce pressure.
Flood WallsBarrier walls around buildings to block floodwaters.
LeveesRaised embankments redirect or contain floodwaters.
Anchorages & ConnectionsStrengthen beams, piles, and columns to withstand vertical,
uplift, and lateral forces.
Secure storage tanks, conduits, and pipes.
LECTURE 34: COST-EFFECTIVE STRUCTURE AND
ARCHITECTURE
1. Introduction
Techniques to reduce construction costs without compromising strength, durability, or
performance.
Locally available materials, improved skills, and advanced technology play a crucial role.
2. Factors Affecting Construction Costs (6 M’s)
1. Building Material Cost
2. Labour Cost
3. Size of Construction
4. Type of Building
5. Construction Techniques
6. Time
3. Methods to Achieve Cost-Effectiveness
Use Alternative Materials instead of conventional ones.
Innovative Construction Techniques to save costs.
Optimize Design for efficiency.
Effective Planning & Management to control resources.
4. Cost-Effective Construction Techniques
Foundation
Arch Foundations in normal soil can save 40% of costs.
Under-Reamed Pile Foundations in black cotton soil saves 20-25% compared to traditional
foundations.
Walls
Cavity Wall Construction improves thermal comfort and reduces brick usage.
Rat-Trap Bond minimizes material use while maintaining strength.
Lintels
Brick Arches instead of RCC lintels for small spans can save 30-40% of costs.
Arches also enhance architectural aesthetics.
Roofing
Filler Slabs & Precast Elements reduce roofing costs by 20-25%.
5. Cost-Effective Building Materials
1. Stabilized Compressed Earth Blocks
Made of mud with 5% cement/lime, stronger, economical, and energy-efficient.
2. Fly-Ash Gypsum Stabilized Mud Blocks
Uses industrial waste, absorbs less water, and saves 30% cement.
3. Fly-Ash Lime Gypsum Products
A cement alternative useful for masonry, plaster, and blocks.
4. Clay Red Mud Burnt Bricks
Made from aluminum industry waste, offers attractive hues for architectural designs.
5. Precast Stone Blocks
Made from waste stone pieces, reduces cement use and construction time.
6. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks
Lightweight, precast foam concrete, used for both interior & exterior walls.
6. Case Studies of Cost-Effective Architecture
1. Shibam, Yemen – Famous for its mud-brick skyscrapers.
2. Centre for Development Studies, India – Designed by Laurie Baker, known for cost-
effective construction.
3. Passive Solar Earth Block Building – Uses earth blocks and passive solar design.
4. Brick House, India – Example of sustainable and low-cost construction.
LECTURE 35: STRUCTURE AND LIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE
1. Introduction
Light plays a crucial role in architecture, influencing space, materials, and color.
Different visual experiences and moods emerge from dynamic daylight and artificial
lighting.
Structural forms affect natural light penetration, shaping the spatial experience.
Source: Structure as Architecture – A. Charleson, 2015
2. Light Sources and Structures
The Sun is the primary natural light source.
Structural Forms That Allow Light:Trusses, space frames, and mega openings enable
light penetration.
Moment/rigid frames allow more light than solid walls.
Open or skeletal structures function as primary light sources.
3. Structural Form and Light
Architecture can interact with light in four key ways:
1. Source of Light – Structural openings let in natural light.
2. Maximizing Light – Enhancing daylight penetration using structural forms.
3. Modifier of Light – Filtering or diffusing light through structural elements.
4. Modified by Light – Light alters the perception of materials and structures.
4. Examples of Structural Forms That Allow Light
Source of Light
Wolfgang Meyer Sport Centre, Germany – Light enters through the junction of the flying
strut and fabric membrane.
San Francisco International Airport, USA – A three-dimensional truss allows light to pass
through.
Sant Jordi Sports Hall, Spain – Light enters through folded roof joints.
Burrell Collection Museum, UK – Glass and timber atrium maximizes daylight.
Satolas Airport Railway Station, France – Glazing in the main concourse allows daylight.
Maximizing Light
Trade Fair Glass Hall, Leipzig, Germany – Vaulted truss structure admits maximum
daylight.
Louvre Museum, Paris – The pyramid structure enhances daylight entry.
Modifier of Light
City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, Spain – Structural elements filter daylight.
Modified by Light
Timber Showroom, Hergatz, Germany – Glare dematerializes structural elements, altering
perception.
LECTURE 36: EVOLUTION OF HIGH-RISE STRUCTURAL
SYSTEMS
Introduction
High-rise structural systems must resist both gravity loads (vertical) and lateral loads
(wind, seismic).
Materials used: Steel, Reinforced Concrete, and Composite materials.
Key Structural Components
1. Columns
2. Beams
3. Shear Walls
4. Bracing
5. Core Systems (Central Core, Split Core, End Core, Atrium Core)
Classification of High-Rise Structural Systems
Interior Structures: Lateral load resistance is located inside the building.
Exterior Structures: Lateral load resistance is concentrated at the perimeter.
Interior Structural Systems
1. Braced Hinged Frames
Efficient in resisting lateral loads through axial forces.
Challenges: Planning limitations due to diagonal braces.
2. Rigid Frames
Uses moment-resisting connections between beams and columns.
Example: Ingalls Building (Ohio, USA), 860-880 Lake Shore Drive (Chicago, USA).
3. Shear Wall Hinged Frames
Uses reinforced concrete shear walls interconnected by beams/slabs.
Example: Casselden Place (Australia), 77 West Wacker Drive (Chicago, USA).
4. Shear Wall (or Shear Truss)-Frame Interaction System
Combines shear walls/trusses with moment-resisting frames for added stability.
Example: Empire State Building (New York, USA), Seagram Building (New York,
USA).
5. Outrigger Structures
Transfers overturning moments from the core to outer columns using outriggers
(trusses or walls).
Example: Taipei 101 (Taiwan), Jin Mao Tower (Shanghai, China).
LECTURE 38: HIGH-RISE STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS
(PART II)
This lecture examines iconic mega-structures worldwide, focusing on their unique architectural
and structural innovations.
1. Shanghai Tower (China)
Designed as a “city within a city” with nine vertical zones, each 12-15 stories high.
Includes public spaces such as shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Features public atriums for enhanced livability and environmental efficiency.
Upper floors house hotels, cultural venues, and an observation deck.
2. Burj Khalifa (Dubai, UAE)
World's tallest building with a Y-shaped plan and Buttressed Core, ensuring stability.
Maximizes views and daylight access while maintaining privacy.
Exterior cladding of aluminum and stainless steel protects against Dubai’s extreme
climate.
3. One World Trade Center (USA)
A symbol of resilience and innovation.
Features advanced structural engineering and security measures.
Incorporates sustainable technologies for energy efficiency.
4. Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)
Three interconnected towers with a distinctive twisting design.
The SkyPark at the top introduces new structural challenges.
Architectural form creates a dynamic and visually striking composition.
LECTURE 40: ARCHITECTURE AND STRUCTURE - PAST,
PRESENT, AND FUTURE
This lecture explores how architecture and structural design have evolved over time,
influenced by functional needs, cultural shifts, technological advancements, and sustainability
concerns.
1. Introduction: The Role of Architecture
Architecture serves as a means to:
Protect inhabitants from nature and external threats.
Ensure safety and security of resources.
Facilitate family living and communal interactions.
Provide privacy for individuals and groups.
Achieve aesthetics that reflect cultural and personal preferences.
Explore new opportunities for spatial innovation and design efficiency.
2. Change as a Constant in Architecture
Architectural evolution is driven by multiple factors, including:
Purpose & Functional Needs – Changing social structures influence spatial design.
Technological Advancements – New materials, machinery, and methods enable innovative
structures.
Geological & Climatic Conditions – Site location and environmental factors affect design
choices.
Economic and Social Influences – Availability of resources, workforce, and financial
investments.
Sustainability & Green Architecture – Increasing focus on eco-friendly materials and
energy efficiency.
3. Innovation and Sustainability in Architecture
Technological innovations enable more efficient, adaptive, and resilient structures.
Sustainable design principles reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency,
and create healthier spaces.
Future trends focus on smart buildings, renewable materials, and climate-responsive
architecture.