Building Construction II

Module Introduction

The subject aims to introduce structures as architecture by developing an understanding of the structural systems in construction technology in a unique way in relation to historical and innovative buildings. Skeletal, solid and surface construction systems are discussed and analysed in temrs of load and forces in a general term. Projects based on topics covered during lectuers provide students with the opportunity to apply knowledge gained as well as to further enhance understanding of the topics.

Module Objective

1. To develop an understanding of the structural systems in construction and its application in the bulding industry.

2. To identify and apply knowledge of load and forces in analysing structural possibilities in the structural systems as part of the construction process.

Project 1

We had to design and build a shelter for one in a 1:1 scale. The shelter should be constructed to fit for one person in a sitting position and have a maximum height of 1.5m and a maximum base size of 0.75m x 0.75m. The construction should demonstrate the knowledge of skeletal frames and its joints. The joints should be constructed to reflect actual joints. Suitable recycled materials has to be chosen to build the shelter. The shelter should be light and portable, resistant to outdoor weather, easily access in and out from the shelter. The completed has to withstand the weight of an average 60kg person up to 2 minutes. An A3 bound report is to be produce to document the built process.

Progress of building the shelter

Outcome of the final built shelter

Reflection

After going through this build process I have learnt to apply the knowledge of skeletal construction and its joints to actual construction and esign and learn about the ability of the shelter to hold the load applied in the specified duration. I also have a better understanding of appropriate materials to suit the functions of the shelter.

Project 2

We are to propose a building(solid construction or surface construction) and identify the different types of structural systems used in the construction of the building of our choice. WE had to ensure that the building selected is using at least TWO(2) different types of structural system. A model showing the different structural systems used in the above building is to be produced using suitable scale and material. Individually, we had to produce a detialed drawing of the selected building to show different parts of the selected buildings complete with annotations and specifications to show understanding on how the building is constructed.

Reflection

From this project I have learnt to identify basic structural systems in construction and compare solid and surface construction systems. I can also differentitate solid and surface construction sysetems in temrs of loads and forces acting on sturcutrla elements as well as recognize and apply the implications of construction system in design. I can also analyse the issues of strength, stiffness and stability of structures including modes of structural systems, forces, stress and strain and laws of static.

Module Reflection

Opon successful completion of the module, I am now able to identify basic structural systems in construction ad recognize the implication of construction systems in design. Besides that, I can compare solid, skeletal and surface construction systems as well as apply construction systems in design. I can also differentitate solid, skeletal and surface construction systems in terms of loads and forces acting on its structural elements, On top of that I can now analyse the issues of strength, stiffness and stability of structures including modes of sturctural systems, forces, stress and strain and laws of static.