Frame.
Week 2: Studio Journal
Activity: FRAME CHALLENGE This week's activity involved constructing the tallest structure possible whilst experimenting with the key concept of frame construction. Our group decided to construct triangular prism frames and then join them together. We initially intended on bracing the frames for support but were constrained for time and materials. Materials supplied: Long strips – Balsa Wood, glue for joints Base Shape: Triangular using half length of strips
Testing: Construction system: 3 connected triangular prisms with one braced face ● The supporting triangular elements caused torsion (a twisting effect) ● Was more supported on triangulated sides, meaning the structure would have been made more stable with more braced faces ● Joints were weaker than the elements Construction system: small triangular prism; joints extended further from where they met ● Members were very weak ● The strength of the members were dependent on the section, stiffness and length Construction system: connected triangular prisms, no bracing ● Unable to stabilise itself ● Base was too small so the proportion didn’t allow for the members to remain stable ● Buckling was evident (occurs with long columns) ● When made into two separate structures, they were able to support themselves ● The structure's faces were square, not braced so they weren’t as horizontally stable ● When made into one, the members snapped almost at the geological centre