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Structural Systems Overview

The document discusses different types of structural systems based on how they redirect external forces. It identifies four main types: bulk-active structures which rely on material bulk and continuity like beams and columns; vector-active structures which use tension and compression members like trusses; surface-active structures which rely on surface continuity like plates or shells; and form-active structures which use the form of the material like arches or cables. The proportions of structural elements provide visual clues to their role and the nature of the materials used.

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Priyank Soni
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173 views1 page

Structural Systems Overview

The document discusses different types of structural systems based on how they redirect external forces. It identifies four main types: bulk-active structures which rely on material bulk and continuity like beams and columns; vector-active structures which use tension and compression members like trusses; surface-active structures which rely on surface continuity like plates or shells; and form-active structures which use the form of the material like arches or cables. The proportions of structural elements provide visual clues to their role and the nature of the materials used.

Uploaded by

Priyank Soni
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Types of Structural Systems Given a specific attitude toward the expressive

role of the structural system and the desired spatial composition, appropriate
choices for a structural system can be made if one understands the formal
attributes the various systems develop in responding to applied forces and
redirecting these forces to their foundations.

Bulk-active structures redirect external forces primarily through the bulk and
continuity of its material, such as beams and columns.

Vector-active structures redirect external forces primarily through the


composition of tension and compression members, such as a truss.

The proportions of structural elements, such as bearing walls, floor and roof
slabs, vaults and domes, give us visual clues to their role in a structural system
as well as the nature of their material. A masonry wall, being strong in
compression but relatively weak in bending, will be thicker than a reinforced
concrete wall doing the same work. A steel column will be thinner than a wood
post supporting the same load. A 4-inch reinforced concrete slab will span
farther than 4-inch wood decking.

Surface-active structures redirect external forces primarily along the


continuity of a surface, such as a plate or shell structure.

Form-active structures redirect external forces primarily through the form of


its material, such as an arch or cable system.

As a structure depends less on the weight and stiffness of a material and more
on its geometry for stability, as in the case of membrane structures and space
frames, its elements will get thinner and thinner until they lose their ability to
give a space scale and dimension.

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