Tuesday, April 21, 2015 6:00 pm
-
6:00 pm
EDT (GMT -04:00)
Of
the
thesis
entitled: Optimizing
Structure
: An
Investigation
into
Lightweight
Structures
Abstract:
This
thesis
investigates
how
to
reduce
the
raw
materials
invested
in
a building,
specifically
in
the
structural
aspect
of
its
construction,
and
in
so doing
decrease
the
embodied
energy
required
to
build
a
structure.
Geometric structures
that
utilize
tensile
forces
allow
for
the most
efficient, lightweight
and
economical
improvements
in
building
design.
This
construction method
will
allow
structures
to
be
built
in
a
way
that
incorporates
rapid
set up,
decreased
material
transportation
costs,
and
the
substitution
of
local materials. Innovative
truss technologies that
have
the
potential
to
be
applied
to
multiple
scales
and
types
of
building structures
will
facilitate
the
optimization
of
enclosed
spaces.
Architecture typology today is still largely articulated on modernist practices developed nearly a century ago. This research proposes an alternative to the present and future of building technology. The focus is on creating small triangulated units that can be linked together in order to create a grid that makes a stable and supported structure. Unlike space frame construction, this approach reduces the size and volume of materials required by optimizing the use of tension components. Lightweight but strong tensile cable, in combination with small compression struts composed of wood or another renewable material, create a building unit that is extremely strong and utilizes resources to their maximum potential.
Preliminary investigations into tensile structures revealed that the failure in such a system would likely occur in the compression struts rather than in the tension segments themselves. Therefore, the research also focuses on the issue of compression members and how to improve their form. The goal is to achieve a tension structure that resists bending, yet can remain lightweight and can be assembled using humble materials.
The research also addresses ecological and sociological concerns. Technological advancement in an age of consumption has resulted in the creation of extraordinary structures from an architectural standpoint; however, the increased use of materials and the expansion of the human world are taking their toll on the earth’s natural systems. The construction method proposed still allows the standard of living that Western society has become accustomed to, but in a way that is much more environmentally responsible. Indeed because of its adaptability and portability, it may afford developing nations a viable building opportunity they could otherwise not have envisaged.
Architecture typology today is still largely articulated on modernist practices developed nearly a century ago. This research proposes an alternative to the present and future of building technology. The focus is on creating small triangulated units that can be linked together in order to create a grid that makes a stable and supported structure. Unlike space frame construction, this approach reduces the size and volume of materials required by optimizing the use of tension components. Lightweight but strong tensile cable, in combination with small compression struts composed of wood or another renewable material, create a building unit that is extremely strong and utilizes resources to their maximum potential.
Preliminary investigations into tensile structures revealed that the failure in such a system would likely occur in the compression struts rather than in the tension segments themselves. Therefore, the research also focuses on the issue of compression members and how to improve their form. The goal is to achieve a tension structure that resists bending, yet can remain lightweight and can be assembled using humble materials.
The research also addresses ecological and sociological concerns. Technological advancement in an age of consumption has resulted in the creation of extraordinary structures from an architectural standpoint; however, the increased use of materials and the expansion of the human world are taking their toll on the earth’s natural systems. The construction method proposed still allows the standard of living that Western society has become accustomed to, but in a way that is much more environmentally responsible. Indeed because of its adaptability and portability, it may afford developing nations a viable building opportunity they could otherwise not have envisaged.
The examining committee is as follows:
Supervisor:
Committee Members:
Elizabeth English, University of Waterloo
Val
Rynnimeri,University
of
Waterloo
Lloyd
Hunt,
University
of Waterloo
External Reader:
Dr. Scott Walbridge, Civil Engineering, University of Waterloo
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Tuesday
April
21,
2015
6:00PM
Architecture
Room 1001
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.