tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45469200084943604312024-03-05T00:59:01.405-08:00Will It Stand?Exploring the structural side of designUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-26176282450064688772010-08-10T12:59:00.001-07:002010-08-10T13:07:09.430-07:00Inventive EngineeringIs civil engineering on the cutting edge of technology? While almost all civil engineers remain devoutly proud of their chosen profession, some forward looking engineers are challenging the status quo. Are civil engineers followers – mostly implementing the ideas developed by others? Is there a stagnation of ideas in the profession?<br /><br />Certainly, we are living in a rapidly evolving world that poses new challenges: environmental quality, global warming, worker safety, homeland security. These challenges may appear outside the purview of long-established civil engineering practice. Who then is more qualified to address these challenges? They cannot be met using only the well-known routine solutions; they demand engineering creativity.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.successfuleducation.us/images/Tom.gif"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.successfuleducation.us/images/Tom.gif" border="0" /></a>Professor Tomasz Arciszewski, of the Volgenau School of Information Technology and Engineering at George Mason University, has attempted to address these challenges by promoting engineering creativity and inventive design.<br /><br />Unlike a growing number of faculty, Professor Arciszewski has hands-on design experience in the areas of steel space structures (Poland) and general structural engineering (Switzerland). He is also an inventor with three patents (Canada, Poland, USA) and another seeking approval this year. These experiences let him to an interest in engineering creativity, specifically in inventive design leading to the development of novel, feasible and potentially patentable design concepts.<br /><br />Over the past decade, Professor Arciszewski has organized a system of courses related to engineering creativity, including a Graduate Certificate Program on “Discovery, Design, and Innovation.” He also teaches a course on “Design and Inventive Engineering,” which regularly attracts 12-14 PhD students from all areas of IT, engineering, the Departments of Psychology and Physics. The course covers many aspects of engineering creativity (which he calls “Inventive Engineering”), including the historical and psychological background, design methods and theories, bio-inspiration in design, AI in design, invited talks by inventors, etc. Undergraduate courses have also been offered.<br /><br />Professor Arciszewski’s program at George Mason University is unique. The School was established about 20 years ago by Professor Andrew Sage, who was a visionary and saw the future as an intersection of IT/computer science and engineering. In other words, he wanted to create interdesciplinary programs leading to knowledge interegration and emergence of new transdisciplinary knowledge (Building a bridge between Computer Science and Engineering).<br /><br />This multidisciplinary approach to engineering education has inspired participation from industry leaders. Dr. Paul Seguin of the US Army Corps of Engineers (Office of Strategic Planning) frequently participates in the classes and provides real inventive problems for students to solve. At the end of semester students present their results in front of a panel of about 10 “judges,” who are distinguished scholars and practicing civil engineers.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.successfuleducation.us/images/Book4saleT.gif"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.successfuleducation.us/images/Book4saleT.gif" border="0" /></a>Luckily, you don’t need to enroll at George Mason to learn more about inventive engineering. Professor Arciszewski recently published a book on “Successful Education. How to Educate Creative Engineers.” It provides a philosophical and intellectual foundation for teaching Inventive Engineering. It is available at <a href="http://www.successfuleducationllc.us/">http://www.successfuleducationllc.us/</a>.<br /><br />I commend Professor Arciszewski efforts to transform civil engineering education by teaching students how to become creative people – inventors leading the generation of novel solutions that contribute to the fundamental needs of society and advance our civilization.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-57475652887278591892010-04-07T19:29:00.000-07:002010-04-07T20:21:45.726-07:00Will it tick?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4494463241_5710f23454.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 298px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4494463241_5710f23454.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Can you tell the time on my new watch? There should be many ways of marking the passage of time. Why are we limited to <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital" title="Digital" rel="wikipedia">digital</a> numerals and analog spinning hands? Throughout time many devices, including water clocks and sun dials, were developed, but here in the Western world we've coalesced around two standards.<br /><br />I love my new <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.nooka.com" title="Nooka" rel="homepage">Nooka</a> watch. It's digital but analog at once. The 12 dots represent the hours and the horizontal bar fills as the minutes accumulate. It is graphic, simple and unreadable upon first glance by most literate people. It does not ascribe outrageous accuracy to the precise time. Unless you are linked to the atomic clock at the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.921473,-77.066946&spn=0.01,0.01&q=38.921473,-77.066946%20%28United%20States%20Naval%20Observatory%29&t=h" title="United States Naval Observatory" rel="geolocation">US Naval Observatory</a>, your <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clock" title="Clock" rel="wikipedia">timepiece</a> is probably wrong.<br /><br />The literature that came with the watch puts the experience this way: "The linear and graphic representation of time with Nooka <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watch" title="Watch" rel="wikipedia">watches</a> presents a more intuitive way to view time. The visual mass increases as time passes, giving weight to an ephemeral and abstract concept."<br /><br />To me this new form is analogous to the seeking of new architecture. From <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_music" title="Classical music" rel="wikipedia">classical</a> to modern and beyond, architecture is constantly evolving. Good architects use developments in technology and practice to design better buildings. <br /><br />In his controversial work "<a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.amazon.com/Toward-Architecture-Texts-Documents-Corbusier/dp/0892368225%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzemanta-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0892368225" title="Toward an Architecture (Texts & Documents)" rel="amazon">Toward an Architecture</a>," <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Corbusier" title="Le Corbusier" rel="wikipedia">Le Corbusier</a> wrote that architects should seek standardized forms. He provides the example of the evolution of classic column orders and temple plans into a precise template. Cars too, it was argued, achieved a similar <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standardization" title="Standardization" rel="wikipedia">standardization</a>. However, the motor vehicle could now be used as an example to disprove the point. Car companies are attempting to re-form the personal vehicle to be more efficient and run on alternative fuels, but they are constrained by the preconceived standard.<br /><br />Vehicles, buildings and, apparently, watches are all experiencing a reinvention for the 21st century. Designers of all breeds have their work cut out for them. Finding simple examples of innovation fuel inspiration to improve our relationship with our environment.<br /><br />Would you wear a Nooka watch? Do you ever wear a wristwatch at all? What other forms do you think timepieces will take on in the future (besides the obvious cell phone)? Do you feel that relating the design of watches, cars and buildings is at all appropriate. Please add your comments below.<br /><br /> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/c98beddb-cccf-4af5-9ef9-dba5333ecaa3/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=c98beddb-cccf-4af5-9ef9-dba5333ecaa3" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-12227105663532415712010-03-30T19:48:00.000-07:002010-03-30T20:26:00.474-07:00Pecha Kucha! Gezhundeit.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pecha-kucha.org/images/misc/pkbook-140x140.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 140px;" src="http://www.pecha-kucha.org/images/misc/pkbook-140x140.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>What is <a href="http://www.pecha-kucha.org/">Pecha Kucha</a>? First things first, try pronouncing it Pe-Cha-Ku-Cha with emphasis on the "Cha's." The expression is a colloquialism for chit-chat in Japanese, but since 2003 it has come to mean something special to young designers in several cities. Regular events feature architects, artists, and even engineers (in my case) giving fast-paced lively presentations. Each presenter is permitted only 20 slides and 20 seconds per slide. The results are entertaining to say the least.<br /><br />On the night that I was asked to represent the Chicago AIA Younger Architects Forum, we heard presentations ranging from vacation photos from Jamacia to a career of designing military bunkers. The topics ranged broadly, but the speeches were unanimously entertaining. It's not certain whether the venue (<a href="http://www.martyrslive.com/">Martyr's</a>, a local bar) helped provide some liquid courage. The packed house was a bit imposing, but the audience was incredibly supportive and laughed at most of my lame jokes.<br /><br />Please enjoy the video of my presentation... or not. I'm afraid to spoil my memory of the event by seeing what actually transpired.<br /><br /><center><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gueBh9Q_glw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gueBh9Q_glw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></center><br /><br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/9fb4bb88-3b0c-4d5e-ad10-6358e61c28af/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=9fb4bb88-3b0c-4d5e-ad10-6358e61c28af" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-16006554215163036772010-03-08T15:31:00.000-08:002010-03-08T15:47:08.178-08:00The quiet war: architecture and digital technologies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LkOdHQUpNxWjfsUfXUU_X-qgEHmp0vA33P6CtQjUFZ0IIAjYiWemmA5JWL2rOgLLW2nEnpsHtkGNKKW62qyZqvlRz0vue7B35W7x50m9rXajHdXs-snW9ukheok8U2DAGxYGjEG-8Q/s1600-h/flatiron.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446413561589833730" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 149px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LkOdHQUpNxWjfsUfXUU_X-qgEHmp0vA33P6CtQjUFZ0IIAjYiWemmA5JWL2rOgLLW2nEnpsHtkGNKKW62qyZqvlRz0vue7B35W7x50m9rXajHdXs-snW9ukheok8U2DAGxYGjEG-8Q/s200/flatiron.jpg" border="0" /></a> Two weeks ago I attended a lecture/discussion led by Tristan D’Estree Sterk and Douglas Pancoast at the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/flat-iron-arts-building-chicago">Flatiron Arts Building</a> in Chicago. Both presenters are known for their forward-thinking approach to digital technologies in Architecture.<br /><div><br />Tristan founded a small design and technology enterprise called the <a href="http://www.orambra.com/">Office for Robotic Architectural Media & the Bureau for Responsive Architecture </a>(ORAMBRA). We met at the <a href="http://www.saic.edu/">School of the Art Institute of Chicago </a>(SAIC), where we collaborated in teaching a studio on materials and structures. Douglas is now the director of the <a href="http://www.saic.edu/degrees_resources/departments/aiado/">Architecture and Interior Architecture</a> graduate program at SAIC.<br /><br />Last fall, Douglas and Tristan welcomed the <a href="http://www.acadia.org/">Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture </a>(ACADIA) to Chicago for their annual conference. The featured presenters delivered a diverse account of how technology is informing architecture. However, despite the enthusiasm brought by the ACADIA event, some architects continued to question the long-term effects of digital technologies on architecture. </div><br /><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446411105607846226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 146px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij910bo4Iz_g3dORiPuzS3XSGBootZzB6K8VE1-OpxzMELpyMJLsZCWxBEryDn_k9e5A-iJG0rLY2TM2vUa8NUeem4fGzthwFPlkwpd9y0-_kUdjf-sNd8Ijw66nsaozcHx8UJ-PMfIA/s200/Tristan_Douglas_Digital+Tech.PNG" border="0" /><br />With that history in mind, I entered the recent lecture expecting a demonstration of technological superiority and an argument to adopt digital technologies or get left behind. Instead, the discussion was far more nuanced and philosophical. Instead of merely presenting a few “killer-apps,” Tristan and Douglas attempted to articulate a polemic between new digital technologies and classical design theory. The discussion that followed was intellectual, and to be honest, I had to look up some works, like polemic, when I got home.<br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>Polemic: a controversial argument, as one against some opinion, doctrine, etc.</blockquote><br />After leaving the discussion I continued to ponder some of the points that were raised. The following are my perceptions on two topics, as inspired by the talk.<br /><br />During the presentation, Tristan recalled another architects observation that Western (particularly Christian) culture establishes itself in competition with/ or supremacy over the environment. Many other cultures revere nature or worship the sustaining elements. Christianity, from the earliest chapters of Genesis, places mankind above nature. This line of thought is provocative and largely subconscious but not trivial when it comes to reconciling history, sustainability and technology.<br /><br />For example, many new analytical procedures have been developed to model efficient heat and light distribution in buildings. However, skeptics refer back to old standards for sizing air conditioners and illuminating rooms. They say that any other approach will be uncomfortable and more expensive. As we enter a new age in design that seeks to be more sustainable, architects must overcome skeptics and re-shape the culture to accept greener norms.<br /><br />Another healthy discussion focused on the adaptability of buildings as machines for living. An attendee pointed out that the Flatiron Arts building (that the lecture was held at) provided an example of how adaptable traditional design is to new uses. The building began as a warehouse, then was utilized for office space and now houses an eclectic group of art studios. Over time, space has been partitioned into rooms of odd shapes and crooked hallways. Yet, the inefficiency in the layout is recognized as a charming feature of the space, ideally suited for its current residents.<br /><br />Would new ‘super-buildings’ serve such a diversity of purpose over time? A building uniquely suited for one particular client, may not over time maintain its relevance. Could the Bilbao Guggenheim ever be re-purposed for anything other than a museum? Have some architects over-utilized computer modeling to generate complex forms simply for the sake of looking modern?<br /><br />Before wholly embracing the digital revolution, perhaps it is worthwhile to ponder the reasons for doing so. I enjoyed the opportunity presented by Tristan and Douglas’ to consider the technological revolution occurring in architecture today.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-31849222386800127332010-02-06T11:18:00.000-08:002010-02-06T11:35:15.291-08:00Achitects & Beyond<span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Last Thursday I attended the Architects & Beyond lecture sponsored by the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.cityofchicago.org/" title="Chicago" rel="homepage">Chicago</a> Young Architec</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >ts Forum. The event was held at HOK</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >’</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >s office in the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8833333333,-87.6333333333&spn=1.0,1.0&q=41.8833333333,-87.6333333333%20%28Chicago%20Loop%29&t=h" title="Chicago Loop" rel="geolocation">South Loop</a>. It was marketed as an</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >evening of learning and networking.</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" > </span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Four presenters spoke from their personal experiences of setting up new businesses. Three had left safe careers as building</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >architects</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" > to</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >follow their passion</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >s in non-traditional design arenas.</span></span><ul><li><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >The first presenter set the theme: architects and engineers are uniquely suited with skills that help us solv</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >e problems AND these skills need not be limited to <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: border; -moz-background-origin: padding; -moz-background-inline-policy: continuous;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1265483816_0"><a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_design" title="Building design" rel="wikipedia">building design</a></span>. Her</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >business was to help other</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >entrepreneur</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >s</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >design a business plan to succeed in the market</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >. She emphasized that</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >your compensation when starting out is 50% financial, 50% experience and feedback</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >. </span></span><span lang="en-us"> </span><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.tillcreative.com/"><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><u><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >http://www.tillcreative.com/</span></span></u><span lang="en-us"></span></a><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"></span></li></ul> <ul><li><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Nathan Benjamin from Planet Reuse was up next. He</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >described his businesses niche in linking</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >stockpiles of re-usable building demolition materials</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" > with</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >builders and</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >specifiers.</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >“</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;" >PlanetReuse has evolved into a consulting and brokering company focused on providing the insight, experience and materials its clients need. With a well-defined and efficient process, PlanetReuse expertly matches materials with designers, builders and owners to save projects money, serve <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19" title="LEED" rel="homepage">LEED</a> efforts and sustain the planet.</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;" >”</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;" > </span></span><span lang="en-us"> </span><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://planetreuse.com/"><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"><u><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;" >http://planetreuse.com/</span></u></span><span lang="en-us"></span></a><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"></span></li></ul> <ul><li><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >A third speaker told of her unlikely transition from architecture to the world of fashion. </span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Mohop shoes, so named for the designer</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >’</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >s last name, are now among the most fashionable</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >“</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >green</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >”</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >products on the market. It turns out that</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Rhino can be used equally well to design a futuristic building as a comfortable sole. </span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >Just add a block of carefully selected timber and a CNC end-mill and voila! </span></span><span lang="en-us"> </span><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.mohop.com/"><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><u><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >http://www.mohop.com/</span></span></u><span lang="en-us"></span></a><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" > </span></span></li></ul> <p dir="LTR"><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >The over-riding lesson is that</span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >architects AND engineers have the toolset to take on any number of <span style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: border; -moz-background-origin: padding; -moz-background-inline-policy: continuous;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1265483816_1">design challenges</span>, beyond buildings. </span></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en-us"></span><span lang="en"> </span></p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rB1zVv9MGzx-UfQBbtPWla_ZoinC5WH1HnahFu0l-OZS9mj6bV3mh_om3-vX44EqxWDIBB2Y-n4Nro89t-MDCrx7Sft-TMwe2qlwT7DMWvamINtWrvqEGANlz_APqxYDBXmbuvVjtg/s1600-h/global_7094395.jpeg.png"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 113px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rB1zVv9MGzx-UfQBbtPWla_ZoinC5WH1HnahFu0l-OZS9mj6bV3mh_om3-vX44EqxWDIBB2Y-n4Nro89t-MDCrx7Sft-TMwe2qlwT7DMWvamINtWrvqEGANlz_APqxYDBXmbuvVjtg/s200/global_7094395.jpeg.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435215768770891874" border="0" /></a><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >While many in</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >attendance were a bit surprised to</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >see an engineer at</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >an</span></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" > <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1265483816_2">AIA</span> event</span></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >, I was repeatedly encouraged to continue coming. They had lots of questions and wanted to know how to encourage more</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >participation by engineers. I promised that I would do my part. So if you</span></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >’</span></span><span lang="en"><span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >re an engineer tired of hearing presentations about the latest in</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >advanced non-linear response of pre-tensioned members, consider attending</span></span><span lang="en"> <span style="color: rgb(39, 39, 39);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >some AIA YAF events.</span></span> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/cb5c08c2-5a9b-4c19-86fc-dac98b62ad99/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=cb5c08c2-5a9b-4c19-86fc-dac98b62ad99" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-84531857685502538702010-01-03T19:43:00.000-08:002010-01-03T19:59:58.608-08:00Will an unreinf. conc. dome stand?Few 1800-year-olds look so good. From within the rotunda of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8986,12.4768&spn=0.01,0.01&q=41.8986,12.4768%20%28Pantheon%2C%20Rome%29&t=h" title="Pantheon, Rome" rel="geolocation">Pantheon</a>, you could be excused for thinking that the church was constructed just recently. Among all the remaining Roman sites of the Mediterranean, the basilica is probably the most well preserved. Two features contributed greatly to the preservation: its constant use as a place of worship and the incredible <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concrete" title="Concrete" rel="wikipedia">concrete</a> enclosure that protects the interior from the elements.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4165243219/" title="Piazza dei Rotonda by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2670/4165243219_107bda2057.jpg" alt="Piazza dei Rotonda" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /></div><br />Constructed in 126 A.D., the Pantheon very likely represents the height of Roman <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_engineering" title="Structural engineering" rel="wikipedia">structural engineering</a> achievement. In fact, the 142 ft. diameter cupola is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. That record is in no jeopardy of being broken, as no modern building <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_code" title="Building code" rel="wikipedia">code</a> would permit such a structure without the use of at least a minimum of steel reinforcing. And yet the Pantheon stands today without any significant reinforcing to alter the original engineers' design intent.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2714/4165997706_3c8cf9a99e.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 175px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2714/4165997706_3c8cf9a99e.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Ancient engineers and architects found a synergy in form that provides a visual experience while enabling the structure to function. Weight was judiciously removed from the roof structure by including a 30 ft. diameter oculus and coffered interior surface. The oculus is simply a large hole in the ceiling that admits the only natural light into the space. Some might also interpret the opening as a spiritual window to the world of the gods. The coffered sides of the dome provide a waffle-shaped pattern that draws attention upward. These two elements give the only outwardly apparent visual clues to the means of structural support.<br /><br />Several recent investigations have been undertaken to answer the mystery of the structure. The most frequent citation found on online accounts of the Pantheon follows: Mark, R.; Hutchinson, P. (1986), "On the structure of the Pantheon", Art Bulletin 68: 24–34. A nice online summary of those findings is presented by David Moore, P.E. at <a href="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/chapt01.htm">RomanConcrete.com</a>. Some of the grandstanding is a bit unwarranted, but it is definitely easy to get carries away when describing the achievement of the Roman Engineers.<br /><br />To start with, the original designers were accustomed to super-sized structures. And for all the delicacy portrayed within the Pantheon interior, the first rule of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">construction</a> is to build it big. The <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foundation_%28engineering%29" title="Foundation (engineering)" rel="wikipedia">strip foundation</a> on which the curved building rests is about 34 ft. wide. The wall which supports the dome is about 20 ft. thick. However, perhaps to reduce weight or provide behind the scenes storage space, 8 large niches were created within the otherwise solid wall. As usual, arches are used to great effect to relieve distribute load to piers, thus permitting the openings. This great mass of wall was necessary to provide adequate resistance to the inevitable outward thrust of the dome. No buttresses or perpendicular supporting structures were employed, as was common in later medieval structures.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/pansect.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 290px;" src="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/pansect.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The dome itself is nearly 20 ft. thick at its base and tapers to just 5 ft. thick at the oculus. A number of techniques were used to achieve the full span. First, a series of seven concentric rings of decreasing size were constructed one on top of the other, like stacking incrementally smaller metal washers. Other authors have suggested that this form is likely borrowed from the very early structural development of the corbeled arch - where a series of stones are stacked, with each cantilevering slightly past the previous. Using this technique, it's possible that the first stages of the dome were constructed without shoring down to the floor.<br /><br />Beyond the stepped region, the shell becomes a smooth continuous surface. This part of the dome, in addition to the visible interior coffers, was likely cast on formwork supported from below. At the ring of the oculus, the building materials change again. Here a combination of tile and metal plates provide the compression ring that resolves all of the forces acting at the apex of the dome.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/panoutdm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 280px;" src="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/panoutdm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The Roman engineers impressively used the materials and methods available to them for maximum structural efficiency. They even created special light-weight concrete to reduce the overall weight of the dome. The 85 lb/ft3 (PCF) mix used at the top of the dome is approximately 40% lighter than today's normal weight concrete. It's even lighter than most conventionally available lightweight concrete. Despite the selection of lightweight aggregates, the engineers still achieved a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compressive_strength" title="Compressive strength" rel="wikipedia">compressive strength</a> near 3000 lb/in2 (PSI), very near modern expectations for standard strength concrete. It's also important to point out that the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pozzolan">Pozzolan</a> binder used by the Romans differs quite a bit from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portland_cement">Portland Cement</a> we use today (which requires a very high energy industrial process).<br /><br />Despite their best efforts, cracks have been witnessed in the dome. The papers I reference above go into detail about their possible origins. They tend to equate the problem as one of excessive tensile hoop stresses near the base of the dome. Like a simple arch, domes also convert vertical forces into horizontal pressure. I prefer to think of the cracking in terms of the small displacement probably occurring at the top of the supporting wall. Stone and concrete, we all know is not a flexible material.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/pancrack.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 175px;" src="http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/chapt01/pancrack.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The obvious solution to the problem would be to wrap the base of the dome with some form of tension ring, essentially preventing it from spreading further. However, experts again disagree about when the cracks first appeared. It's possible that they formed immediately after construction, and the dome has stood for over 18 centuries since. It's even possible that the ancient designers were aware of this phenomenon but anticipated it and compensated in the early construction phases.<br /><br />Barring a catastrophic seismic event, raging fire or destructive conflict, the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8986,12.4768&spn=0.01,0.01&q=41.8986,12.4768%20%28Pantheon%2C%20Rome%29&t=h" title="Pantheon, Rome" rel="geolocation">Roman Pantheon</a> seems to be in shape to survive many more centuries. It is a credit to the initial work of the designers to plan such a robust and awe inspiring building that future generations would have such keen interest in maintenance and preservation. The structural elegance of the rotunda will be an inspiration to engineers for many generations to come.<br />Do you think that the Pantheon should be reinforced to withstand possible seismic events, or should the original design integrity be maintained? Are modern building codes overly prescriptive, effectively stifiling innovation like that used at the Pantheon? Should naturally occurring Pozzolan binders used more often in modern building construction. Add your comments below.<br /> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/87367b8f-d426-4de8-b13e-f999b29949fe/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=87367b8f-d426-4de8-b13e-f999b29949fe" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-47038422412815539392009-12-23T12:46:00.000-08:002010-01-03T20:03:48.995-08:00Will smart balloons change design?At the 2009 ACADIA (Assoc. for <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design" title="Computer-aided design" rel="wikipedia">CAD</a> In Architecture) conference, I was blown away by all the radical design ideas brought forth. Of them, the most intriguing ideas imagined how new technologies could be used to create responsive structures - buildings that could change shape and function in reaction to external stimuli. Ideas like this are more familiar in the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.wikinvest.com/concept/Robotics" title="Robotics" rel="wikinvest">robotics</a> field, but it turns out that simple mechanisms can be utilized to bring our buildings alive.<br /><br />Mehran Gharleghi and his colleagues at <a href="http://www.studiointegrate.com/">Studio Integrate</a> in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.5080555556,-0.124722222222&spn=0.1,0.1&q=51.5080555556,-0.124722222222%20%28London%29&t=h" title="London" rel="geolocation">London</a> have been exploring the field of responsive structures. Their motivation was to apply simple light weight technologies to provide <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_ventilation" title="Natural ventilation" rel="wikipedia">naturally ventilated</a> and cooled spaces in hot sunny locations. The following is a short description of their research on an Adaptive Pneus in their own words:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4192153963/" title="image013 by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2551/4192153963_7a412e0688.jpg" alt="image013" width="400" height="315" /></a><br /></div><br />"This research focuses on the performative capacities of a pneumatic material system in regard to the specific environmental conditions. It explores a new approach that integrates form generation, material behavior and capacity, manufacturing, and assembly to deliver a modulated <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_environment" title="Natural environment" rel="wikipedia">environment</a> suitable for occupation.<br /><br />The focus of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design" title="Design" rel="wikipedia">design process</a> and research was the use of Adaptation as a mechanism to modulate environmental performance. Here, adaptability relates to the responsive action that affects the performance of the whole building and, therefore, holds a much closer relationship to the biological and natural ideas of responsiveness.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4192913098/" title="image011 by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4192913098_9ca4d5ed54.jpg" alt="image011" width="400" height="315" /></a><br /></div><br />Location of the sun during the day acts as a trigger to adapt the system, allowing the system to augment passively the environmental conditions. Detection and reaction are embedded in each cell, and responses take place locally and independently. These responses at the regional and global scales allow for the distribution of intelligence across the whole system." <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/fdef16e5-59df-4aa4-af4f-8277200b09b9/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=fdef16e5-59df-4aa4-af4f-8277200b09b9" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-72754184145171729552009-12-09T08:23:00.000-08:002009-12-10T01:16:12.334-08:00Will a catenary span 600 ft?The Chameleon is a design concept for linking Chicago’s Northerly Island to the shore near <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667&spn=0.01,0.01&q=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667%20%28Soldier%20Field%29&t=h" title="Soldier Field" rel="geolocation">Soldier field</a>. In the second part of my series exploring the potential structure of this design, I applied basic load and deflection principles to estimate a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel" title="Steel" rel="wikipedia">steel</a> quantity. Unsatisfied with the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brute-force_search" title="Brute-force search" rel="wikipedia">brute force approach</a>, I explored other structural forms and became intrigued by the concept of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catenary" title="Catenary" rel="wikipedia">catenary</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4168484131/" title="Fireworks by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2588/4168484131_d8c4f2d218.jpg" alt="Fireworks" height="336" width="400" /></a><br /></div>A catenary is the theoretical shape that a hanging chain or cable will assume when acted on only by its own weight. Such a member experiences only tension forces and is very efficient for spanning a distance. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/3919595152_69237b7d6c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 250px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/3919595152_69237b7d6c.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The inverse would be the classical arch, a design feature that ideally only experiences compression. Both structural concepts were widely implemented until the advent of steel beams. In fact, the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi was known to utilize catenary models in his most famous works. A series of strings was used to construct the complex arch and vault system he desired - just upside down. Gaudi realized the relationship between strings in pure tension and stones in pure compression, a law most eloquently described by Newton. “To every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.”<br /><br />The arc of the catenary is defined by a fairly simple <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mathematics" title="Mathematics" rel="wikipedia">mathematical</a> relationship. y=a*cosh(x/a) The key constant in the equation, “a,” represents a relationship between the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tensile_strength" title="Tensile strength" rel="wikipedia">tensile force</a> in the member and the applied gravitational force. By tuning the axial stiffness, or resistance to elongation, and strength of the members the arc can be adjusted. Even within fairly rigid confines, such as those set by the need to allow boats to pass beneath the bridge, a satisfactory geometry can be achieved.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4173255071/" title="Catenary Beams by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2499/4173255071_41d77c4019.jpg" alt="Catenary Beams" height="100" width="400" /></a><br /></div>Recently building engineers have begun to revisit the potential of catenary action. Many of the most recent reports have dealt with the capacity for floor systems to apply catenary effects to prevent progressive collapse. If properly detailed, the floor beams on several floors can actually form a catenary that will support a column despite the removal of a column support. These recent reports still caution that the method is only effective when large deformations occur and the system has a substantial span to depth ratio. Fortunately, both of these conditions may be permitted in our long span bridge design.<br /><br />Several bridge forms that utilize this structural technique. Simple rope bridges, like those creaky death traps featured on <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indiana_Jones" title="Indiana Jones" rel="wikipedia">Indiana Jones</a>, are the most elementary catenary structure. Unlike a conventional <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_bridge" title="Suspension bridge" rel="wikipedia">suspension bridge</a>, these parabolic structures follow a true catenary curve, because the flexible deck follows the free hang of the cable. The longest such rope bridge, located near Vancouver, is an incredible 450 ft. long. Of course, the problem with these true catenary structures is the bounce and sway experienced by the brave souls that cross them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2519/4173976948_6db84c5eda.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2519/4173976948_6db84c5eda.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Hybrid applications of the catenary shape have been applied in more static conditions. While the cable of a suspension bridge may initially follow a catenary arc, once the deck cables are attached, the form becomes a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parabola" title="Parabola" rel="wikipedia">parabola</a> carefully computed by the designers. Nor is it essential to use cables to achieve the purpose. <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.5055555556,-0.0755555555556&spn=0.01,0.01&q=51.5055555556,-0.0755555555556%20%28Tower%20Bridge%29&t=h" title="Tower Bridge" rel="geolocation">Tower Bridge</a>, in London, is known as a suspension bridge, but the “cables” are actually riveted steel plate sections. Therefore, we can assume that a catenary form can be applied to a solid static form.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4173257499/" title="Trace_Chamelion by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2768/4173257499_e0459f92c9.jpg" alt="Trace_Chamelion" height="130" width="400" /></a><br /></div>The major implicit challenges are tuning the member sizes to achieve the final elongated position and constructing given the daily changing member orientations (as <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">construction</a> load is applied). Such a non-linear analysis and sequencing model is beyond the scope of this speculative blog. However, if we overlay a tension catenary (blue) and a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arch" title="Arch" rel="wikipedia">compression arch</a> (red) on the elevation of the bridge, we can see potential in the architectural form. Two more parabolic lines (green) appear to close the gaps, facilitating a continuous structure. Even if the intent of the exterior surface is to be undulating and unpredictable, we could envision facet lines that follow the main structural form or find ways to embed that within the structure. I believe this is a concept that brings structural harmony and simplification to a chaotic form that is more visually indicative of the sense of turbulent times.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.digitalgallery.ca/mybest/050317-P2/03-5456v-bridge.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 230px;" src="http://www.digitalgallery.ca/mybest/050317-P2/03-5456v-bridge.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Taking the catenary concept one step further, I would further propose that the interior pedestrian paths be supported by the means of one massive catenary bridge. Spanning 600 ft., it would be the longest “rope bridge” in the world. Far from typical, this catenary bridge would be comprised of dual layers with a depth of 16 ft. between. Ramps would connect the two layers and provide exit from the top down to dry land. The original programming called for entertainment and snack bar venues. Providing a stable surface, not wildly influenced by passing pedestrians would be challenging. Perhaps, the catenary pedestrian bridge could be connected to the exterior structure via a system of dampers, to modulate the movement and sway.<br /><br />Though the initial design suggests that the pedestrian walks be suspended from the super structure, the incorporation of a pedestrian catenary bridge might provide the necessary construction platform to facilitate the building of the shell structure. At times during construction, might the shell actually be suspended from the pedestrian bridge. This might be a significant design consideration that has greater bearing in determining the size of the catenary bridge members than the actual person load.<br /><br />Though this analysis has been brief, I hope it has accurately represented the thought process of an engineer presented with a design challenge. Use of catenary and arch forms is far from new technology, but they may be appropriate for this project. Even within an apparently static form, there might be potential to implement a bridge form known in the popular mindset as awkwardly unstable. From a structural dreamer’s standpoint the irony of the design is quite satisfying. Delivering a record setting structure goes even further in achieving the goal of a landmark bridge.<br /><br />What other examples of catenary bridges are out there? Does the catenary concept have merit? Do you think the pedestrian platform would be steady enough to be comfortable? How might contractors cope with the gradual change in shape that will occur in the structure throughout construction? Comment below.<br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/87b88dd4-230b-479f-99a7-575c8b49f8ee/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=87b88dd4-230b-479f-99a7-575c8b49f8ee" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-1378521493808980972009-12-09T08:22:00.000-08:002009-12-13T08:18:16.785-08:00Will a bridge link Northerly Island?The Chameleon pedestrian bridge would link <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667&spn=0.01,0.01&q=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667%20%28Soldier%20Field%29&t=h" title="Soldier Field" rel="geolocation">Soldier Field</a> to Northery Island. But, will it stand? In this blog, I will apply basic structural principles and equations to estimate the material requirements of such a bridge. To the greatest extent possible, I have tried to remain true to the original design intent, but early schematic evaluations require lots of approximation.<br /><br />My first caveat is that I’m a building engineer. The layman would be surprised at the differences between the thought processes and <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_code" title="Building code" rel="wikipedia">building codes</a> that apply to bridges and buildings. However, given the functional intent of this pedestrian bridge, it might is some senses be better treated as a building. To that end, I’ve used the Chicago Building Code (CBC) as a baseline for determining load conditions and general requirements. As we proceed, though, you may find that more elements of common vehicle bridges will find their way into the concept by way of seeking the most efficient forms.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4168484693/" title="The Bridge Experience by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2497/4168484693_a63319253f.jpg" alt="The Bridge Experience" width="400" height="336" /></a><br /></div>As a building engineer, my first inclination was to evaluate the bridge concept as a beam. In the classic, simply supported beam, the greatest bulk of the structure would necessarily need to be located in the center of the span. However, the architectural intent is to minimize the mass of the structure where it most influences the efficiency of the design. That runs counter to the simple approach. Instead, I thought of the bridge as a system of two cantilevering beams. This type of layout places the greatest <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cross_section_%28geometry%29" title="Cross section (geometry)" rel="wikipedia">cross-section</a> size over the abutments.<br /><br />Cantilever bridges were once very common, owing to the ability to construct out from the piers until meeting in the middle. This reduced or eliminated the need for temporary piers or barges located in the deepest part of the body of water below. Employing such a construction method would be advantageous in this example as well, so that the marina below could remain in operation to the fullest extent possible.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4169248052/" title="Interior Perspective by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2604/4169248052_cc03569431.jpg" alt="Interior Perspective" width="400" height="336" /></a><br /></div>Before I could run some preliminary numbers, I needed to make several estimates about the size and scope of the project. From <a class="zem_slink" href="http://google.com/" title="Google" rel="homepage">Google</a> maps, I estimated a free span of 600 ft. Taking all of the abutment requirements into account the real span might be a fair distance larger, but this estimate provides a baseline for exploring the concepts. Secondly, I estimated from the architectural sections, the dimensions of the superstructure. The platforms looked to be about 25 ft wide. The total height might be 45 ft. at the maximum depth. Since the exterior shape was to be comprised of many jagged surfaces, I applied a 33% reduction of the height to approximate the relative location of the main structural elements, treated as two lumps of steel - one representing the top chord of a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss" title="Truss" rel="wikipedia">truss</a>, and the other the bottom chord.<br /><br />I could estimate the weight of the bridge by taking the lumped mass of steel plus another 50% to account for connections, web members and cladding. Depending on the type of façade and the interior build-out, that number could be substantially larger. For the live load, due to pedestrians and amenities, I applied the 100 PSF load stipulated by the CBC for corridors, lobbies and other public space. Notably missing from my quick calculations were allowances for the effects of mother nature. Snow accumulation and lateral wind pressures would place a particularly large demand on any actual structure.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4171778294/" title="Cantilever Beam Equations by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2692/4171778294_8ae18b5772.jpg" alt="Cantilever Beam Equations" width="400" height="347" /></a><br /></div>Nevertheless, I proceeded with a basic cantilever model. With the inputs described above, I was able to use pre-derived equations (taken from the AISC Steel Manual) to estimate the deflection of the beam at it’s cantilevered end and the amount of moment accumulated above the piers. As expected for such a long span, the deflections were large. Use of the spreadsheet allowed me to incrementally increase the amount of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_steel" title="Structural steel" rel="wikipedia">structural steel</a> until arriving at quantity that seemed to meet the criteria. Again using my building background, I sought a deflection of no more than the length of the span divided by 360 (an arbitrary, but typically justifiable criteria). A deflection due to live loads up to 20 in. would be acceptable.<br /><br />I also experimented with the length of the back-span. Intuitively, I figured that the longer the back-span, the smaller the end displacements. However, since my simple equation assumed the same stiffness throughout the length of the beam, when the back-span length increased too much, it became too flexible to provide a steady prop for the cantilever. This suggests that the architectural concept, which shows a short but deep section behind the forward pier, conceptually meets the structural demand.<br /><br />After iterating through my calculations to meet deflection and strength criteria, I arrived at a design that called for about 1200 tons of structural steel. In more graphic terms, the bridge truss superstructure would consist of thirteen 14 in. wide flange beams (I-shaped) each weighing about 120 pounds per foot. Considering the other factors left out of my analysis, this seemed like an expensive brute force way to achieve the design.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4171020071/" title="Cantilever Model by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2643/4171020071_482e39a33b.jpg" alt="Cantilever Model" width="400" height="190" /></a><br /></div>I thought back to the original intent to minimize structural mass where not required by strength demands. The simple model assumed that the entire length of the bridge consisted of the same size section. However, because we chose a cantilevered design, the forces in the members would decrease as we approached the end of the cantilever. The structural shape could also taper with that demand. I used RISA 2D, a simple <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finite_element_method" title="Finite element method" rel="wikipedia">finite element analysis</a> program, to compare the effect of tapered versus constant sections. In the tapered model, I reduced the weight of the section by 60% from the pier to the free end. As a baseline to see if I was still meeting the strength and stiffness minimums, I computed the deflection due to a constant live load first. The results showed an almost negligible difference. The effect on the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_and_live_loads" title="Dead and live loads" rel="wikipedia">dead load</a> deflection, however, was a significant 50% reduction.<br /><br />These results indicated that the original design had been conceived with sound structural principles in mind. Of course, many issues still remain to be addressed. One such concern is whether the multi-faceted shell will be stable. The jagged exterior form seems to call for some type of internal space frame or self-bracing mechanism to prevent the perimeter from buckling. Surely solutions exist, but a what cost to the overall project.<br /><br />Without even addressing many additional design considerations, the steel quantities that I had arrived at still seemed heavy. Perhaps more efficiencies could be realized without compromising the architecture. Looking for inspiration, I would turn to other bridge examples. In the form of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_bridge" title="Suspension bridge" rel="wikipedia">suspension bridges</a>, I remembered the principles of catenary structures. To be continued in the next post…<br /><br />How would you have conducted this schematic evaluation? Do you agree with the load applied? Would you have used the full section depth to estimate the building stiffness? What other important considerations were ignored in this evaluation?<br /><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/24742821-c520-4b18-adf6-73e82a57eca4/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=24742821-c520-4b18-adf6-73e82a57eca4" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-84176711086103347112009-12-09T08:20:00.000-08:002009-12-10T01:34:23.553-08:00Will new faces deliver landmarks?Early in 2009, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778%20%28Chicago%29&t=h" title="Chicago" rel="geolocation">Chicago</a>’s architecture community was a buzz about the opportunity to <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design" title="Design" rel="wikipedia">design</a> spaces for the 2016 Olympics. They looked to showcase the city’s rich <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_architecture" title="History of architecture" rel="wikipedia">architectural history</a> and implement new modern forms being explored by a new generation of architects. Adina Balasu was one such enterprising designer completing her <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Academic_degree" title="Academic degree" rel="wikipedia">graduate degree</a>. As part of her studies, she devised a landmark bridge to allow pedestrians access <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympic_Games" title="Olympic Games" rel="wikipedia">Olympic</a> venues on <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northerly_Island" title="Northerly Island" rel="wikipedia">Northerly Island</a>, just across the marina from <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667&spn=0.01,0.01&q=41.8622222222,-87.6166666667%20%28Soldier%20Field%29&t=h" title="Soldier Field" rel="geolocation">Soldier Field</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4169247948/" title="Night View by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2557/4169247948_4524fc012c.jpg" alt="Night View" height="336" width="400" /></a><br /></div>The concept, christened Chameleon, was to create a functional bridge that would be a destination in itself. Two levels of walkway would be suspended within a futuristic space frame shell. The large interior space might also be used as a multi-purpose venue for entertainment, retail and relaxation. After the Olympics left, the structure would be a necessary link to further the planned development of the little-used island park. An inspirational form and <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering" title="Engineering" rel="wikipedia">engineering</a> feat, visitors would make a visit to the Chameleon part of their itinerary, expanding the traditional Chicago tourist district several blocks south.<br /><br />I was introduced to the project at a meeting of the AIA Young Architects Forum. Following Ms. Balasu’s presentation, we had the opportunity to discuss the details of the project. I was intrigued by the structural challenge and impressed with her desire to express the structural form in the bridge’s appearance to reflect the technology of the times.<br /><br />I delayed in my review for several months before picking up the concept with a fresh perspective. Unfortunately, in that time, Chicago was passed over for the Olympic bid. Despite this missed opportunity, I started wondering who deliver the trend-setting designs of the future. The current recession seems to have stalled several major projects, and missing out on the Olympics further deflated the local architecture community. When the economy turns around again, who will be at the forefront. I suspect that many of the innovative architects that I met at the YAF will lead the charge.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4169248156/" title="Outdoor Show by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2732/4169248156_04bf60f720.jpg" alt="Outdoor Show" height="336" width="400" /></a><br /></div>The Chameleon appeals to me as one of those great next-generation <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture" title="Architecture" rel="wikipedia">architectural</a> concepts. Over the next few blogs I will outline my thought process and presents some potential strategies for making the Chameleon stand.<br /><br />What do you think, when will we escape the current <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recession" title="Recession" rel="wikipedia">economic downturn</a>? Will their be a new generation of architects leading the way at that time? Where should enterprising structural engineers look to network with these future partners? Please comment below.<br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/826c5740-7cff-4f47-952b-63f373157647/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=826c5740-7cff-4f47-952b-63f373157647" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-16598180614975016942009-11-18T11:03:00.000-08:002009-11-18T11:17:52.407-08:00Will a floating donut design stand?In 2007, I spent six months living and working in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.kk.dk/english" title="Copenhagen" rel="homepage">Copenhagen</a>. There were many cultural differences to overcome, and a lot of new <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">construction</a> methods to learn. Scandinavian design is renown for being modern and forward thinking. Danish architects are leaders in long span structures, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sustainable_design" title="Sustainable design" rel="wikipedia">sustainable design</a> and creative use of space. I learned to approach projects more creatively in order to achieve the design goals.<br /><br />One conceptual project that I was involved with was sited adjacent to Parken, the National Football Stadium. The proposed program included a multipurpose arena, a theatre stage, parking, office space, a fitness center and an extensive <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_roof" title="Green roof" rel="wikipedia">green roof</a>. Locating all of these services on the constrained site was a challenge for the architectural team. Parking was located below grade, the arena at ground level and everything else above.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4115671404/" title="Parken Arena by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2557/4115671404_dc4c5e518d.jpg" alt="Parken Arena" height="200" width="450" /></a><br /></div><br />In that scenario, the major challenge was finding an economical way of supporting multiple floors of occupied space above the arena. To ensure unobstructed views in the arena, a 50m (160 ft) free span was required. The first scheme was<br /><br />The first concept explored a conventional box design, topped with <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tennis_court" title="Tennis court" rel="wikipedia">tennis courts</a> and a crown-like perimeter wall. However, when the long span loading concerns were shared, the architects relieved weight by removing structure above the mid-span. The resulting design featured a floating square donut above the box. Developing a structure that retained the visual intent would be difficult, but more economical than the original, more conventional, approach.<br /><br /><a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_engineering" title="Structural engineering" rel="wikipedia">Structural design</a> proceeded in two steps: first setting the design of the arena enclosure and secondly supporting the ancillary levels above. The intent was to have both systems vertically supported by the same set of columns, thus avoiding a transfer situation in the arena roof. In one scenario, we considered supporting the entire donut on just four corner super-columns.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4115672598/" title="Robot Truss Analysis by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2710/4115672598_6913510b4b.jpg" alt="Robot Truss Analysis" height="300" width="450" /></a><br /></div><br />The <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss" title="Truss" rel="wikipedia">truss</a> supporting the donut would need to be three stories tall in order to span the length of the arena. However, this was aesthetically possible, because the truss would be located along the interior face of the building. The design of the truss members depended on the loads, materials, and architectural requirements.<br /><br />The layout of the diagonals can be chosen so that they are in compression or tension. Eventually, all loads find their way to the top or bottom members, called chords. The design of these members is critical, since they usually see the greatest amount of load. Different design consequences apply if a member is in tension or compression. For a member in compression, the length is especially critical, since this most determines the susceptibility to buckling. Therefore, we would prefer the longest members to be in tension. However, dealing with strange load conditions and providing room for walkways through the truss can disrupt the best laid plans.<br /><br />In the end, our design mixed a Warren layout (alternating diagonal directions) with a Pratt (diagonals only in tension). The combination was due selected so that the 3-story tall truss would be stable during construction. The one-story warren truss could be erected on the ground and lifted all at once. Then the other two stories would be erected above, using the first floor as an erection platform.<br />We later looked at several more schemes for the proposed arena. Ultimately, the project was canceled before construction commenced. Nevertheless it presented an interesting exercise in combining universal principles with local preferences.<br /> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/3a30a97c-e198-4564-a3d9-5aea0e7cbdf6/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=3a30a97c-e198-4564-a3d9-5aea0e7cbdf6" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-84286264418574978752009-11-13T00:48:00.001-08:002009-11-18T11:25:06.359-08:00Will it stand into space?Earlier this week <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.cnn.com/" title="CNN" rel="homepage">CNN</a> ran an <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/space/11/05/space.elevator/index.html">article on its front page</a> about the prospects of a <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_elevator" title="Space elevator" rel="wikipedia">space elevator</a>. The idea, first seriously proposed by author Richard C. Clarke 30 years ago, has gained some momentum because of a series of prizes offered to pioneering inventors. <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.nasa.gov/home/index.html" title="NASA" rel="homepage">NASA</a> offers a $2 million prize to anyone who can design a suitably powered lift to crawl up a 1 km high tether. Another contest challenges teams to design a tether twice as long and strong as what currently available on the market.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/TECH/space/11/05/space.elevator/t1larg.space.elevator.courtesy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 300px;" src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/TECH/space/11/05/space.elevator/t1larg.space.elevator.courtesy.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Why all the enthusiasm for pursuing such <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_fiction" title="Science fiction" rel="wikipedia">science fiction</a>? In this case, geeky altruism gives way to corporate opportunism. Offering a low cost solution to lifting satellites and research modules into <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geosynchronous_orbit" title="Geosynchronous orbit" rel="wikipedia">geosynchronous orbit</a> could result in a major pay day. Consider sending tourists into space at $1,000 a trip or the potential for solar energy generation free from cloud cover and other environmental restrictions.<br /><br />But will it stand? Experts and enthusiasts believe that the space elevator will happen within our lifetimes. But for now, two major hurdles stand in the way: 1) finding a suitable material for the tether and 2) developing an efficient propulsion system.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/rG8LfQDcqGA&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/rG8LfQDcqGA&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />The experts quoted in CNN's article estimated that a chord 25 times stronger than most advanced industrially available materials would be required. On first glance, that seemed extreme, so I ran some of my own numbers. To simply things, I assumed that the cable would pretty much just hang the whole way - the real design is certain to be more complex.<br /><br />First up, the length of the tether must extend into geosynchronous orbit, so that the space platform remains directly above the base. That's over 22,000 miles up. At that elevation the force of gravity from the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth" title="Earth" rel="wikipedia">Earth</a> is almost 60% smaller. That helps, but a steel cable like those used in suspension bridges would still be around 950 times over capacity. Using Kevlar represents a 10-fold improvement, but we're still not in the ballpark. At least my numbers arrived within an <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_magnitude" title="Order of magnitude" rel="wikipedia">order of magnitude</a> of the expert. The web is a buzz with the potential for carbon nano-tube technologies. Still in their infancy, they provide the hope for a suitable tether material.<br /><br />Construction a climbing vehicle is proving to be as difficult a challenge. To date, no teams have achieved the goals of NASA's competition. The latest attempts drive a small <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_motor" title="Electric motor" rel="wikipedia">electric motor</a> with <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.wikinvest.com/industry/Solar_Power" title="Solar Power" rel="wikinvest">solar power</a>. Try finding a 22,000 mile long extension chord. Carrying fuel on board also heavy and detracts from payload capacity. Looking ahead, many experts believe that laser propulsion holds the key, at least as an energy supply for on-board motors.<br /><br />The challenges seem very exciting. Science and technology geeks like myself believe that the new technology being developed along the way is worth the cost and may be more valuable than the actual working elevator. However, the viewpoints shared by non-technical contributors to the CNN comment board are very disheartening. "Solve world hunger and stop all wars first," decries one writer. Another thinks NASA is a sham and that all monies should be directed toward the recovering economy. Certainly, there needs to be a balance to funding policy, but I for one believe that such scientific exploration return much more than the initial investment.<br /><br />Where do you stand on this question? Is prize money well spent on incentives to create a space elevator? How would you approach the problem? What other materials might offer a solution? Have you heard of an innovative new energy solution? Comment below or participate on at <a href="http://www.spaceelevator.com/">www.spaceelevator.com</a><br /><br />Note: I had not ever considered the possibilities of a space elevator until earlier this week. It's an intriguing and compelling technical challenge to structural engineers.<br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/593ec2f5-da0a-42d7-a09d-ee41323ee34b/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=593ec2f5-da0a-42d7-a09d-ee41323ee34b" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-11054148255358573462009-11-08T04:25:00.001-08:002009-11-08T04:31:30.543-08:00ASCE Annual Conference<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:28fZoJg2OtihiM:http://academics.utep.edu/Portals/1397/ASCE.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 49px;" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:28fZoJg2OtihiM:http://academics.utep.edu/Portals/1397/ASCE.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a>This year’s ASCE Annual Convention was held in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.1097222222,-94.5886111111&spn=0.1,0.1&q=39.1097222222,-94.5886111111%20%28Kansas%20City%2C%20Missouri%29&t=h" title="Kansas City, Missouri" rel="geolocation">Kansas City</a>. The event provided an excellent opportunity to network with industry leaders, learn about the direction of the profession and learn new skills for improving your business acumen. My favorite part of the conference was meeting old friends from previous ASCE commitments.<br /><br />The formal conference began with several inspirational speeches. Outgoing ASCE President, Wayne Klotz, declared, “modern society cannot exist without infrastructure.” He urged the incoming leadership and all in attendance to embrace the ABCs of ASCE: advocate for, believe in and commit to advancing the profession and protecting the nation’s infrastructure. The importance of advocacy was driven home by <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Suttle" title="Jim Suttle" rel="wikipedia">Jim Suttle</a>, professional engineer and mayor Omaha. In short, we all lose when engineers shy away from advocacy and the public debate.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4058568730/" title="Klotz Opening by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2569/4058568730_7f1e733105.jpg" alt="Klotz Opening" width="400" height="325" /></a><br /></div><br />Throughout the conference many sessions were offered to promote the profession through better management practices. These included: Negotiating Better Engineering Contracts, Maximizing Your Bottom Line - Flexible Work Arrangements, The Economic Crisis - Leveraging Infrastructure Development for Recovery, Making the Most of Generational Differences, and more. Technical tracks on sustainability and <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_Information_Modeling" title="Building Information Modeling" rel="wikipedia">Building Information Modeling</a> were also among the conference offerings. Students and Younger members also attended symposiums specifically tailored to their interests. There was something for everyone.<br /><br />Ben Stein was the final speaker at the conference. Far from the monotone sleep inducing lectures attended by <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094582/" title="The Wonder Years" rel="imdb">the Wonder Years</a>’ kids, his talk was very entertaining. He woke everyone up by starting, “I like you guys because your job’s not B.S.” As opposed to the entertainers with which he frequently works, he expressed thanks that engineers work “real jobs with exactitude.” The connection between his various stories and <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_engineering" title="Civil engineering" rel="wikipedia">civil engineering</a> was subtle but important. People from all walks of life are seeking answers to the complex questions of our day. Engineers are viewed as an elite team of problem solvers with the education and creativity to solve these problems. It is a lofty charge but one we can achieve if we accept this vision for the profession.<br /><br />Sunday was perhaps the most fun day of the trip. Traditionally, a service day is planned following the conclusion of the conference. This year ASCE members volunteered to make improvements to the Heartland Therapeutic Riding Ranch. This facility provides <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Therapeutic_horseback_riding" title="Therapeutic horseback riding" rel="wikipedia">equine-assisted therapy</a> to children and adults with disabilities through human interaction with horses. The day’s events also included outreach activities that introduced engineering principles to over 50 local children.<br /><br />In addition to the typical conference events, I was busy working behind the scenes on many tasks. On the Wednesday before the conference, I attended the Committee on Younger Members meeting. There, I learned about proposed changes to the organization to adapt to the needs of upcoming generations of engineers. I also met with members of ASCE’s media relations staff to discuss the blog I write for Student and Younger members, <a href="http://blogs.asce.org/bridgingthegap/">http://blogs.asce.org/bridgingthegap/</a>. The Committee on Pre-College Outreach, which I chair, also met informally. We brainstormed some good new ideas and sought to gain support immediately by fanning out into the afternoon ice breaker reception and talking with ASCE leaders. Friday night, I had dinner with the editor of the Journal of Leadership and Management in Engineering. He asked me to contribute a column to their next edition. What a week!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4085857054/" title="Seattle YMF by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4085857054_44ebbec39a.jpg" alt="Seattle YMF" width="400" height="325" /></a></div> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/a6efc010-e077-4d7c-910f-78585765a0fa/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=a6efc010-e077-4d7c-910f-78585765a0fa" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-29926264211128021342009-11-06T07:00:00.000-08:002009-11-06T07:47:53.873-08:00Will it stand as a Cube?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3969389790_93533dddff.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 130px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3969389790_93533dddff.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Architects and engineers are often creatively constrained by the perception of economy in conventional designs. Generations of efficient refinement of building form have led toward standard boxy structures. However, creativity and function driven design can be encapsulated within a traditional cube. The Matrix Gateway Complex would be an exception to the rule of monotony in rectilinear buildings. It would provide residents a full 3-D city experience, featuring suspended platforms linking modular housing and community venues.<br /><br />Designed as both an urban gateway and a self-sustaining city, this 42-story, 180m cube prototype would be one of the greenest, most aesthetically striking and technologically innovative mixed-use buildings in the world. The Matrix Gateway Complex would contain many of the amenities of a great urban center: a hotel with fitness and conference centers, retail and office spaces, cultural and religious facilities, and waterfalls surrounded by lush green terraces. Each component would take the form of a moveable module, connected to one of five central cores, all of which would be visible from the outside through a semi-transparent exterior skin.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxH57nWj0MCSn5hS8IFBaOMH3__oceR3LbJ6VIxi2wrGaFB226wlKw0uI8YRi8QePAtX1tt2Hd42I__KN-QME8juF5Ps0PxTI4RgokzuZextSNKHR35PRB_MJ4Yo0FmLToYHuGAGIo6w/s1600-h/4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxH57nWj0MCSn5hS8IFBaOMH3__oceR3LbJ6VIxi2wrGaFB226wlKw0uI8YRi8QePAtX1tt2Hd42I__KN-QME8juF5Ps0PxTI4RgokzuZextSNKHR35PRB_MJ4Yo0FmLToYHuGAGIo6w/s320/4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401012606746570386" border="0" /></a><br />Will it stand?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3491/3969304902_bb998906d5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3491/3969304902_bb998906d5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Based on conventional beam and column floor support, the structure would appear obvious. However, the initial concept dictated that the entire structure be supported only on four central <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concrete" title="Concrete" rel="wikipedia">concrete</a> cores. Columns on the grid would not extend down to a foundation. There would be potential economy in this design requirement, given that the entire building is sited over water<br /><br />Early expectations were that the entire structure could act as a gravity load-resisting moment frame. This concept relies on the stiffness of the columns, beams, and their connections, similar to the concept of a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss#Vierendeel_truss">Vierendeel</a> truss. However in this case, the structure would instead <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever" title="Cantilever" rel="wikipedia">cantilever</a> away from the cores. Computer analysis indicated that the 18m span of the beams was too great to satisfy the load demand.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jtravism/3396561048/" title="4. vierendeel frames the lives by jtravism, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3396561048_8101302d37.jpg" alt="4. vierendeel frames the lives" height="275" width="400" /></a><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/2588603293_cfb4326379.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 190px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/2588603293_cfb4326379.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Alternately, large hat <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss" title="Truss" rel="wikipedia">trusses</a> could be constructed in the top stories of the structure (intended for mechanical and energy generation equipment). The majority of the columns would then hang from these trusses. This idea has been put to practice in the Boeing building, in Chicago. A full bay is hung over the train lines that run along side the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.88634,-87.63764&spn=1.0,1.0&q=41.88634,-87.63764%20%28Chicago%20River%29&t=h" title="Chicago River" rel="geolocation">Chicago River</a>.<br /><br />In order to preserve vast interior atria while providing links between the core clusters, a combination of moment frames, hat trusses, and inter-story trusses would need to be implemented. These elements would facilitate a stable load path for floor plates of varying size and shape. The final structural hurdle involves the asymmetrical layout of the cores. To preserve the economy of the structure, it is likely that an additional <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel" title="Steel" rel="wikipedia">steel</a> core, or large column, would be required to support one corner of the cube from below.<br /><br />The Matrix Gateway Complex was the named the <a href="http://www.chi-athenaeum.org/intarch/2009/matrix20/index.html">Best New Global Design for 2009</a> by the <a href="http://www.chi-athenaeum.org/">Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design</a>. The design is by <a href="http://www.smithgill.com/">Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architects</a>. <a href="http://www.thorntontomasetti.com/">Thornton Tomasetti</a> provided schematic structural consulting.<br /><br /><form method="post" action="http://poll.pollcode.com/Jwo4"><table style="background-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: 'Verdana'; font-size: 13px;" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="500"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" align="right" bg style="color:white;"><span style="font-size:78%;color:black;">pollcode.com <a href="http://pollcode.com/">free polls</a></span></td></tr><tr><td width="500"><strong>Matrix Gateway Complex, will it stand?</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="padding: 2px;" align="center" width="500"><input name="answer" value="1" type="radio">Yes <input name="answer" value="2" type="radio">No <input value="Vote" type="submit"> <input name="view" value="View" type="submit"></td></tr></tbody></table></form><br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/6deb64d0-3851-487b-bb25-548773b36f51/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=6deb64d0-3851-487b-bb25-548773b36f51" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-54730554886846904292009-10-26T19:15:00.000-07:002009-11-06T07:50:07.607-08:00Will it stand in crystaline form?If a tectonic shift in an undersea geological formation sent giant crystals thrusting up through the water’s surface, it might look something like this dramatic arts center prototype positioned in a lake or harbor. Eleven jutting, crystalline structures of varying size—with <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever" title="Cantilever" rel="wikipedia">cantilevers</a> of up to 230 feet over the water—are joined at a base largely concealed beneath the surface.<br /><br /><center><a title="print_33x33_W03 by kmaschke, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4048807516/"><img alt="print_33x33_W03" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2756/4048807516_a8bf2fba3d.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></center><br />Inside the structures, the cantilevers create stunning interior spaces from which occupants will enjoy extraordinary views while experiencing a sense of being suspended above the water. The cantilevered roofs also allow the building to shade itself in a hot climate, which in turn allows for greater transparency in the glass <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curtain_wall" title="Curtain wall" rel="wikipedia">curtain walls</a> beneath.<br /><br />Despite the challenging geometry, a rational framing plan using standard members is anticipated. The intent is to support the cantilevering point of the structure with a prop extending down to the foundation. Chord members (top or bottom members of a truss) would run along the major facets forming a shell-like structure that defined the top of the tapering shape. Several rows of columns would be hung from the exterior truss, while other columns extending to the foundation would lean up to meet the superstructure.<br /><br /><center><a title="Crystal - Floor Plan - Isometric by kmaschke, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3969288136/"><img alt="Crystal - Floor Plan - Isometric" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/3969288136_6aa2af5e10.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></center><br />Lateral wind and earthquake forces could affect the general stability of the structure and induce unacceptable amounts of movement at the point of the form. The level of uncomfortable sway was estimated by first computing the period of the structure, or the time it would take for one complete cycle of swaying movement. A damper would be required in the structure to mitigate the motion.<br /><br /><center><a title="Hood by kmaschke, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3969254396/"><img alt="Hood" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3465/3969254396_fd2feff521.jpg" height="185" width="200" /></a> <a title="Columns by kmaschke, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3969257914/"><img alt="Columns" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3497/3969257914_a0a8587e89.jpg" height="185" width="200" /></a></center><br />Working within the basic architectural form, top exterior facets would include steel <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss" title="Truss" rel="wikipedia">trusses</a>. At lower levels in the building, an internal braced frame (x-braces) would link the floor diaphragms to the exterior trusses as well as to assist in torsional resistance. These systems compliment a unique inclining concrete core.<br /><br />The design is by <a href="http://www.smithgill.com/">Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architects</a>. <a href="http://www.thorntontomasetti.com/">Thornton Tomasetti</a> provided schematic structural consulting.<br /><br /><center><form action="http://poll.pollcode.com/jahe" method="post"><table style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:'Verdana';font-size:13px;" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="500"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" align="left" style="color:white;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >pollcode.com <a href="http://pollcode.com/">free polls</a></span></td></tr><tr><td width="500"><b>Crystal Center, Will it Stand?</b></td></tr><tr><td style="padding: 2px;" align="left" width="500"><input value="1" name="answer" type="radio">Yes <input value="2" name="answer" type="radio">No <input value="Vote" type="submit"> <input value="View" name="view" type="submit"></td></tr></tbody></table></form></center> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/18b20c9d-de37-4da1-bdf9-a1fa868e9681/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=18b20c9d-de37-4da1-bdf9-a1fa868e9681" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-69030925257392055812009-10-26T18:04:00.000-07:002009-10-26T18:44:53.678-07:00ACADIA 09: reForm()<a href="http://www.acadia.org/acadiaspiral-small.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 116px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 72px" alt="" src="http://www.acadia.org/acadiaspiral-small.jpg" border="0" /></a> This past week, I attended the annual conference for the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture (ACADIA). It was held in Chicago at the Art Institute. This setting provided the perfect backdrop for the conference, which annually provides a forum for the examination of emerging research and application of technologies in the building and design professions.<br /><br /><center><a title="IMG_3990 by kmaschke, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/4048644446/"><img height="250" alt="IMG_3990" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/4048644446_690c49d5ef.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><b>New Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago</b></center><center> </center><center></center>I attended sessions covering a very broad range of topics from self actuating <a href="http://www.studiointegrate.com/exhibitions.html">pneumatic structures</a> to kinetic <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/tensegrity/">tensegrity grids</a>. However, the most immediately applicable ideas were, imho, related to parametric strategies for design optimization.<br /><center><br /><a title="Needle tower by afwrite, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/afwrite/302940407/"><img height="250" alt="Needle tower" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/118/302940407_57c5d5da0c.jpg" width="375" /></a></center><center><b>Needle Tower at the Kröller-Müller Museum, a tensegrity structure</b></center><br />One paper, by designers at <a href="http://www.aedas.com/">Aedas</a> & <a href="http://www.arup.com/">Arup</a>, focused on optimizing energy and life cycle costs in tall buildings. They considered an optimized structural shape with adaptation for reducing HVAC loads induced by the environment. The most visually rich presentation about parametric tools was given by an architect from <a href="http://www.nbbj.com/">NBBJ</a>. He specifically discussed the parametric generation of the Hangzhou Stadium using Grasshopper algorithms in association with Rhino. On the final day of the conference, <a href="http://www.som.com/content.cfm/www_home">SOM</a> shared some of the results of their structural optimization research. They discussed the application of <a href="http://www.adb.online.anu.edu.au/biogs/A100480b.htm">Michell</a> Frames (optimized cantilever shapes) in high rises, principal stress trajectories in diagrids, and shape optimization.<br /><br />The general lesson I’ve come away with is that many architects are applying very complex digital and mechanical tools to innovate solutions to common building problems. They are prepared to engage engineers on a highly technical level. This leads me to ponder the question, are structural engineers content to watch from a distance as forward thinking architects take on the seminal building design challenges?<br /><br />Certainly, engineering colleges believe that they are on the cutting edge of innovation. Engineering journals are filled with complex dissertations, but are these papers pushing forward design innovation? Or are we just continually reinventing the buildings codes and shaving off nominal quantities of steel reinforcement. If structural engineers are little more than efficiency experts, they offer little value to their clients, and the profession becomes an outsourceable commodity.<br /><br />We ought not to ask will it stand today? Rather, how will we make it stand tomorrow?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-28305483436010048332009-10-19T07:37:00.000-07:002009-10-19T08:08:37.784-07:00Engineers Gone Wild<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFPr8pFYtoIO9FuD4MW6QOa2jkkWQgQtvPTLknSvPBGW460vUjKIyLVjTeDpi0A1QCng_wh0zdvucz89d24FzdmEoUyZQlC1b_zr6uNSzXBFwsqE4wp8dkqH7d_8xgSE0x6xc8YEU-Q/s1600-h/Warning.PNG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFPr8pFYtoIO9FuD4MW6QOa2jkkWQgQtvPTLknSvPBGW460vUjKIyLVjTeDpi0A1QCng_wh0zdvucz89d24FzdmEoUyZQlC1b_zr6uNSzXBFwsqE4wp8dkqH7d_8xgSE0x6xc8YEU-Q/s200/Warning.PNG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394322846998803522" /></a><div>Structural engineers can also be fun, clever and creative. A case in point is the ‘<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqkRH1pWIqw">Engineers Gone Wild</a>’ Youtube video produced to encourage attendance at a regional structural engineering conference. The video makes a tongue-in-cheek comparison between the business of engineering and Girls Gone Wild. It is well produced, and the result is hilarious.</div><br /><center><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CqkRH1pWIqw&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CqkRH1pWIqw&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center><div><br /></div><div>Even the stodgiest PE can recognize the appeal of such a video to the younger generation. However, for too long, public outreach has been guided by out-of-touch grey-haired men. Although they typically recognize this fact, due to interaction with young employees and grandchildren, this is hardly enough to convince those who consider themselves experts in all fields. The resulting promotional materials have been conservative, highly technical, and reinforce nerdy stereotypes that turn-off creative individuals to engineering careers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fortunately, the last few years have witnessed a major change in how engineering professions are representing themselves to the public. It’s debatable whether this was caused by demographic changes in marketing committees or in recognition of previous failed efforts. Both are true. In my five-year experience on various outreach committees, I have noticed more women and younger members gravitating to such service to the profession. This comes not a moment too soon, as the number of engineering degrees granted annually remains below the peak set in the late 1970s (<a href="http://www.engtrends.com/IEE/0206A.php">reference</a>)<site>.</site></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.nap.edu/images/minicov/0309119340.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 151px;" src="http://images.nap.edu/images/minicov/0309119340.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><div>The National Academy of Engineering has recently taken charge of the re-branding campaign for engineers. A recent report called “<a href="http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12187#toc">Changing the Conversation</a>” sets forth some guidelines for marketing engineering. Instead of emphasizing the static educational requirements of math and science, engineers must highlight the innovative people-serving aspects of their profession. “turning ideas into reality” was found to be the most appealing (and accurate) tagline for summarizing the role of engineers in society.</div><div><br /></div><div>Civil and structural engineers have been at the forefront of this shift in public perception. The American Society of Civil Engineers (<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.asce.org">ASCE</a>) has worked extensively with media outlets, like WGBH in Boston, to produce programming, outreach guides and web resources for pre-college students. <a href="http://www.asceville.org/">Asceville</a> is the latest targeted effort to provide a portal for kids looking to explore civil engineering. Meanwhile the National Council of Structural Engineering Associations (<a href="http://www.ncsea.com/">NCSEA</a>) and the Structural Engineering Institute (<a href="http://content.seinstitute.org/">SEI</a>) have teamed to publish an inspirational poster featuring the Beijing Olympics’ Birds’ Nest stadium.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nevertheless, engineers have a long way to go in correcting the image of pocket-protector wearing cubical-dwelling number-crunchers. Embracing new media outlets and viral marketing might be the next step in communicating with the next generation of engineers. On that front, PR committees are stumbling, too concerned about liabilities and fearing misrepresentation. We ought to be encouraging more viral videos, like Engineers Gone Wild, and promoting discussions on social networks. There are certainly enough silly things in our vernacular (free body diagrams, erection and shrinkage to name a few) to go wild on Youtube and fuel an online buzz about structural engineering.</div><div><br /></div><div>What did you think of Engineers gone wild? Do structural engineers deserve their stereotypes? Should new media (Youtube, Facebook, Twitter) be use to promote the profession? Are there dangers to doing so? Do you have a great idea for a viral video about engineering? Please comment below.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ken Maschke is chair of ASCE’s Committee for Pre-college Outreach and a member of NCSEA advocacy subcommittees on public relations & the media and students & educators.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-76851047228263158752009-10-13T06:00:00.000-07:002009-10-13T06:30:47.342-07:00NCSEA Annual Conference<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.ncsea.com/img/NCSEA-logo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 82px; height: 83px;" src="http://www.ncsea.com/img/NCSEA-logo.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The National Council of Structural Engineering Associations (<a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Council_of_Structural_Engineers_Associations" title="National Council of Structural Engineers Associations" rel="wikipedia">NCSEA</a>) serves to advance the practice of structural <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering" title="Engineering" rel="wikipedia">engineering</a> and, as the national voice for practicing structural engineers, protect the public’s right to safe, sustainable and cost effective <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building" title="Building" rel="wikipedia">buildings</a>, bridges and other structures. The group's annual convention kicks off this Thursday, October 15 in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=33.4483333333,-112.073888889&spn=0.1,0.1&q=33.4483333333,-112.073888889%20%28Phoenix%2C%20Arizona%29&t=h" title="Phoenix, Arizona" rel="geolocation">Phoenix, AZ</a>. <br /><br />Engineers representing societies from across the nation will be in attendance. I'm making my first trip to the conference, because I recently accepted a nomination to the NCSEA advocacy committee. I hope to make a contribution on Media, Education and Outreach topics. <br /><br />While many structural engineers hope to grow the prestige of the profession, they face a public that is increasingly unaware of what it is exactly that they do. On the other hand, people seem to attribute many of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_engineer" title="Structural engineer" rel="wikipedia">structural engineer</a>'s roles to <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architect" title="Architect" rel="wikipedia">architects</a>. Over the past 75 years, these two professions have begun to separate in a way that the public has just not kept up with. The challenge for structural engineers is to educate the public about the added value they provide to building projects. We also ought to highlight how better designs result from the complimentary application of two quite different skill sets. <br /><br />In an early assignment for the Media sub-committee, I attempted to research non-traditional media outlets discussing the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">building industry</a>. I quickly arrived at dozens of architectural <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blog" title="Blog" rel="wikipedia">blogs</a>, but only a handful of sites touched on structural topics. Many of those were published by material suppliers or manufacturers of proprietary products. There we very few independent opinions about engineering. <a href="http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaukCGvMcqmvZGNkcmgyNm1fMjJmZzVka3pjeA&hl=en">View my list on Google Docs.</a><br /><br />This discovery led in part to my desire to launch <a href="http://www.willitstand.com/home.html">Will It Stand?</a> I hope that this blog will fill that noticeable void in cyberspace and address those questions highlighted above. The NCSEA conference will be my first opportunity to pitch Will It Stand to a group of highly regarded structural design professionals. Wish me luck.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.willitstand.com/aboutken.html">Ken Maschke, P.E., S.E., LEED A.P.</a> is editor of Will It Stand? Do you agree with his view of the difference between architects and engineers? To what extent should the engineering community utilize 'new media' outlets like blogs to educate the public about the profession?<br /> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/010271da-c9fa-4b2f-99f5-f2a89a7c085b/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=010271da-c9fa-4b2f-99f5-f2a89a7c085b" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-31989753347949835392009-10-09T04:48:00.000-07:002009-10-09T08:48:45.974-07:00Will it stand as a "W"?The opinion below was provided by <a href="http://www.willitstand.com/aboutken.html">Ken Maschke</a>, editor of willitstand.com and structural engineer. He is NOT a member of the Walter Towers design team. Concept and images by <a href="http://www.big.dk/">BIG | Bjarke Ingels Group</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/gizmodo/2008/09/waltertower.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/gizmodo/2008/09/waltertower.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Will the Walter Towers stand? Sure. There are lots of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_leaning_towers">leaning towers</a>, employing a wide variety of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_material" title="Building material" rel="wikipedia">materials</a> and structural systems. Frequently, the most influential element of their <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">construction</a> is the foundation. Nevertheless, leaning towers like the famous one in Pisa stand to this day. A more compelling argument against the Walter Towers can be made on the basis of economics. But even here, smart <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering" title="Engineering" rel="wikipedia">engineering</a> decisions can be made to lessen the cost impact.<br /><br />The renderings of the development seem to show four adjacent leaning towers. It’s not clear if each is independent or conjoined where they brush by each other. In either case, the two end towers provide the greatest structural challenge, because they do not appear able to lean against anything. What prevents them from falling over?<br /><br /><center><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iK85IlLyNPs&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iK85IlLyNPs&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object></center><br />In engineering circles, we prefer to call this overturning. All tall buildings must resist this force, but typically it’s caused by the wind. Let’s assume that the total force of the wind hits the building just above half the building’s height. The force multiplied by that distance is called overturning moment. Moment has a lot of physical meaning, but just assume for now that it provides a measurement for comparing overturning to the resistance. Then, take a portion of the building’s weight and multiply it by the distance between the extremes of the building’s lateral-force-resisting-system to compute the resistance to overturning. If the resistance is greater, you’re on your way to a stable building. If otherwise, you have three options: socket your foundations into bedrock, add weight to the building or spread apart the structural system. Each option negatively impacts the economics of the project.<br /><br />Leaning towers are even more greatly influenced by overturning. That’s because the building’s weight now works against you – more lean, more overturning moment.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/54/170537470_14c7f17543.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 200px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/54/170537470_14c7f17543.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>To resist the increased overturning, the building’s lateral force resisting system must be chosen carefully. However, most beams and <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Column" title="Column" rel="wikipedia">columns</a> are not engaged in the system and do not help resist overturning. That effort is typically left up to structural <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concrete" title="Concrete" rel="wikipedia">concrete</a> walls and braced frames (X-braces, diagonals, chevrons, etc.). Buildings with a structural outer face, like the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Hancock_Tower" title="John Hancock Tower" rel="wikipedia">Hancock Tower</a> in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778%20%28Chicago%29&t=h" title="Chicago" rel="geolocation">Chicago</a>, are very stable in part because the lateral system is maximally spread out. However, this system typically introduces large outer braces or otherwise reduces the light entering through the façade. Most designers would prefer to locate this part of the structure within the building around windowless elevator and stair shafts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2464/3995471968_daa65416a8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 200px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2464/3995471968_daa65416a8.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The Walter Towers renderings seem to imply a very open façade, precluding the use of exterior braces. One way to extend the reach of the lateral system is to engage the outer columns through the use of outriggers. These are similar in concept to the outer pontoons that stabilize a trimaran sailboat. Every ten floor or so, a stiff truss connects the interior core with the exterior columns. Frequently this truss is hidden in areas intended for mechanical equipment or storage, so to minimally disrupt the programming of the building. Using a composite structural system with a central core linked to exterior outrigger columns maximizes the resistance to overturning moment while minimizing the aesthetic impact.<br /><br />The extreme bend in the Walter Towers introduces complications toward providing stability in other ways too. Wind hitting the building on the face perpendicular to the lean will cause a twisting of the building. This can be countered by a strong central core, but the shape of the walls are important. To resist twisting, a closed square shape is better than an open C-shape. The extent of the tower’s bend will also influence the location of the core. Instead of placing the core in the center at the base, it should be located at a point where it can rise as high in the building as possible without itself leaning.<br /><br />In order to further reduce the effect of the lean, lightweight building materials should be used in the upper half of the tower. <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel" title="Steel" rel="wikipedia">Steel</a> beams and columns can provide the freedom to frame the gradually changing floors at minimum weight. The need for mass and stiffness in the core, however, probably makes concrete a preferable alternative for that element.<br /><br />Will the Walter Towers stand in Prague one day? I hope so. Within the design there are many opportunities to illustrate the potential of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_engineering" title="Structural engineering" rel="wikipedia">structural design</a> practices.<br /><br />What’s missing from this discussion? Are there any other design technologies that could be employed to make these buildings stand? How would you do it? <a href="http://www.quibblo.com/quiz/aWt3xUd/Walter-Towers-Prague-Will-it-stand">Vote</a>, comment below or contribute to the <a href="http://wiki.willitstand.com/data/index.php?title=Walter_Towers_%28Prague%29">willitstand wiki</a>.<br /><br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/840df0a3-f37b-4aa2-beaa-be3e3a8f1c95/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=840df0a3-f37b-4aa2-beaa-be3e3a8f1c95" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-88580660717546783742009-10-08T06:23:00.000-07:002009-10-08T06:37:30.069-07:00Will it stand on a parking garage?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3437/3992199771_3540cb8fac.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 240px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3437/3992199771_3540cb8fac.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Constructing a new building on top of existing structure can sometimes feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. That’s the problem that designers faced in the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction" title="Construction" rel="wikipedia">construction</a> of a 25-story residential tower on top of an existing 8-story concrete garage. In an effort to respond to market changes, the developer abandoned the plans for a square hotel tower with a large light core. Instead a football-shaped condo building that maximized window space was desired.<br /><br />The immediate problem faced by the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design" title="Design" rel="wikipedia">design</a> engineers was how to support the new tower on the existing base. The tower columns did not align with the existing grid, and the structure itself was centered over columns and foundations that were not designed for such loading. In addition, the podium’s lateral system was primarily located outside of the envelope of the planned tower.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3529/3992964446_3a37d7a4fd.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 175px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3529/3992964446_3a37d7a4fd.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Remembering their approach to a similar problem in which a new building planned to reuse existing drilled-pier foundations, the engineers envisioned a 6’-0” deep transfer mat on top of the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-storey_car_park" title="Multi-storey car park" rel="wikipedia">parking garage</a>. In addition a 16’-0” deep transfer girder was introduced along the center of the mat to further alleviate load from the smaller interior columns. Computer analysis helped determine the required size and reinforcing of the structural members. About 500 tons of steel reinforcing were required for the transfer mat.<br /><br />However, in order to make the transfer mat and girder system economical, the residential tower needed to be as light as possible. A steel framing system was found to be the best option. A <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_tunnel" title="Wind tunnel" rel="wikipedia">wind tunnel</a> test revealed that the local wind environment funneled winds off of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=44.0,-87.0&spn=0.1,0.1&q=44.0,-87.0%20%28Lake%20Michigan%29&t=h" title="Lake Michigan" rel="geolocation">Lake Michigan</a> and could excite the tower in a twisting motion. Although the building was sufficiently strong to resist these winds, the particular motion had the potential to upset the occupants.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3992964978/" title="metal deck by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3444/3992964978_202d5b2e14.jpg" alt="metal deck" height="275" width="400" /></a><br /></div><br />The design engineers immediately began discussing options with the architect and developers. Stiffness of the tower played the biggest role in reducing the uncomfortable wind-induced accelerations. The engineers proposed changing the lateral system to a stiff cast-in-place concrete <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shear_wall" title="Shear wall" rel="wikipedia">shear wall</a> system. Large openings in the wall were required to accommodate the condominium units’ floor plans. And for even greater stiffness in the east-west direction, a hat truss was added at the 31st floor to link the cores located at either end of the tower.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3992205343/" title="CityFrony_top by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3517/3992205343_6dff9899dc.jpg" alt="CityFrony_top" height="135" width="400" /></a><br /><br /></div>The construction team likewise faced challenges with the site. The first major construction challenge was figuring out how to support six feet of wet concrete from a series of lightweight post-tensioned parking decks. The supermarket on the 1st floor would have to remain open throughout construction, so it was not possible to shore down to grade. Moreover, the existing parking floors could not support all six feet of wet concrete. Instead, the transfer mat was constructed in two lifts. The first 3’-6” lift included additional shear transfer reinforcement and was designed to support the full wet weight of the remaining mat layer. In this way, the parking decks were actually re-opened ahead of schedule.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/3992964082/" title="pouring concrete by kmaschke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/3992964082_265244d817.jpg" alt="pouring concrete" height="200" width="400" /></a><br /></div><br />With some engineering, the square peg can be fit into the round hole. In this case, a 25-story residential tower was engineered to fit on an existing podium. Creative solutions for distributing gravity load and resisting lateral forces enabled the developers to create a building that could succeed in the current economic environment – even if that meant a drastic departure from the originally designed program.<br /><br />In what other ways might the design team have addressed these challenges? Could the need to pump so much wet concrete 8-stories above ground have been avoided? Comment below or contribute to the <a href="http://wiki.willitstand.com/data/index.php?title=Fairbanks_%28Chicago%29">willitstand wiki</a>.<br /><br />Acknowledgements:<br />Destefano & Partners, 330 North Wabash, Suite 3200, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.8819444444,-87.6277777778%20%28Chicago%29&t=h" title="Chicago" rel="geolocation">Chicago, Illinois</a><br />Linn –Mathes Inc., 309 South Green Street, Chicago, Illinois<br />Thornton Tomasetti, 330 North Wabash, Suite 1500, Chicago, Illinois<br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/7e379661-6d2e-4695-baa5-5f78e56dbad7/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=7e379661-6d2e-4695-baa5-5f78e56dbad7" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4546920008494360431.post-88673151499719865992009-09-25T05:51:00.000-07:002009-10-08T04:55:10.942-07:00Will it stand for another 2000 years?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6uIgUTs6usDa1ejrrPLz-efSO6ZA2VEG-t4RiBKydG0ykAlnfH40pCrRtL_F8Q-TytbSfdd4wo3oMkZ0q92v29XfjO7NL08oVGFhaBA9Eqm6EF6KtT-zlG9OkwNCXwBDWypAWi5JLvg/s1600-h/Pont+du+Gard+-+11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345134573260536562" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 165px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6uIgUTs6usDa1ejrrPLz-efSO6ZA2VEG-t4RiBKydG0ykAlnfH40pCrRtL_F8Q-TytbSfdd4wo3oMkZ0q92v29XfjO7NL08oVGFhaBA9Eqm6EF6KtT-zlG9OkwNCXwBDWypAWi5JLvg/s400/Pont+du+Gard+-+11.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Even in these technologically advanced times, the massive <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire" title="Roman Empire" rel="wikipedia">Roman</a> structures of the first century impress. Perhaps the Romans' most astounding feats were related to their ability to move water. The Pont du Gard of southern France brought fresh spring water nearly 50km from northern highlands to the Roman city at <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C3%AEmes" title="Nîmes" rel="wikipedia">Nîmes</a>. On the way the ancient engineers had to build a 275m long bridge over the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=43.8516666667,4.615&spn=1.0,1.0&q=43.8516666667,4.615%20%28Gardon%29&t=h" title="Gardon" rel="geolocation">Gardon River</a>.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2641/3940985810_09c0710460.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 250px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2641/3940985810_09c0710460.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The Pont du Gard is comprised 56 stone arches. The six lower arches are most impressive, 22m high and 6m thick. <span style="font-family:Arial;">Making the story of its <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering" title="Engineering" rel="wikipedia">engineering</a> even more incredible is the fact that it was constructed without the use of mortar. The precision site surveying and construction sequencing were also feats for the ancient world. Remnants of the shoring system can still be seen in the form of stone corbels protruding from the face of the arches. It's amazing to think that block and tackle could be used to lift stones weighing up to six tons. Nevertheless, it's estimated that the Pont du Gard was erected in 3 years, employing up to 1,000 workers. </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2470/3940209809_f92e71b95c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 250px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2470/3940209809_f92e71b95c.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">In the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Ages" title="Middle Ages" rel="wikipedia">middle ages</a>, the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pont_du_Gard" title="Pont du Gard" rel="wikipedia">Pont du Gard</a> served as a pedestrian bridge across the river. At one point in history, the middle level of arches were chiseled back to provide a wider platform for horse cart traffic. Fortunately, the bridge has survived that defacement, centuries of forceful river surges and local seismic activity.<br /><br />The Pont du Gard is an amazing structure. Standing in it's presence, one reflects on the permanence of its construction. How will structures built today age? Will they seem as elegant to our progeny 2000 years from now? The Romans were building an eternal empire; what are we building for? Please contribute with your comments below or add to the <a href="http://wiki.willitstand.com/data/index.php?title=Pont_du_Gard">willitstand wiki</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14174853@N04/sets/72157619377898587/detail/"></a></span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div></div> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/dcc0a8c2-54bb-4dcf-9c2c-56b5f3b997a2/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=dcc0a8c2-54bb-4dcf-9c2c-56b5f3b997a2" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0