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As the first week, an introduction to the subject was presented, showing the purpose of the course, which is to explore material behaviors, construction processes and structural properties. Within these three broad categories, basic theories and knowledge (particularly focusing on load, mass and downward gravitational force) was attained to understand how a simple building structure works.

Material properties of

◇ Laminated particle board: cheap and lightweight board made of compressed timer

flakes.

◇ MDF blocks: hard timber blocks with strong compres sion resistance

◇ Bluestone: Dominant material used in roads and pavements in Melbourne. Constructing Materials vary in cities.

Structural Properties

◇ Tension: the pulling force from two directions ◇ Compression: pushing force towards each oth er ◇ Sheer ◇ Dynamic, Live, Dead, Static loads ◇ Gravitation: affects compression by pulling forces towards the center of the earth

◇ Construction processes ◇ Load path Diagrams: diagram showing how load reaches the ground

◇ Types of Mass structures: Egyptian, Gothic, Renaissance and medieval

◇ Concept of masonry arches

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In order to investigate and understand the basic compositions of a height-focused tower structure with an opening, the tutorial task of building a tower with identical wooden cubic blocks enabled us to experiment with how a structure withstands various external forces, particularly mass as a dead load. Our aims of the task were to build a tower that: ● ● ● ●

Uses no other material other than MDF blocks Is as tall as possible Utilizes least materials Has an opening enough to fit a model rhinoceros.

With these criteria, we build a hollow, tube like structure.

Measurements of the rhino model was taken to estimate an appropriate size for the arch. A large arch with a wide width and length was avoided to reduce the load acting upon the arch which would reduce the risk of collapsing. As the rhino is approximately the same size as the fish, the minimum opening for the entrance would be 3 blocks in height and 6 blocks wide.

Arch was built by overlapping blocks in a diagonal manner. The arch does not lead to a collapse due to the distributed load in the upper levels. More details described in next page.

Blocks were placed in a cylindrical manner, with gaps in between each block to reduce quantity of blocks used for more surface area.

As height increases, improvisation of additional elements such as cantilevers and an external ‘staircase’ was implemented for experimentation.

Quantity of blocks were reducing and became limited. To maximize height with the least number of blocks, we changed orientation and reduced circumference. We achieved same heights using merely half of the blocks.

Our tower turned out to be the tallest within the group. Load tests with linear download force were experimented upon our tower. It stood securely.

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The construction system of the tower with references to weekly theories are described and analyzed in more depth, showing load paths and the potential deformities of our tower.

Similar to the mass structure of the Egyptian pyramid, blocks of the same material and measurements were used. 2.1 By overlapping half of the surface area of the bottom layer, an arch was built. 2.2 However, this created mini cantilevers on every other level. 2.3 This arch withstood its structure, but to increase the factor of safety (reduce the risks of collapsing), we slit in rotated blocks into the gaps. In the real world, however, these blocks would ideally be cut in the required shape to avoid parts sticking out.

Compared to other towers, a strength of our structure would arguably be the height. While speed is also a factor, this result may be due to the choice of orientation of the blocks. While the tower was being built quantity of blocks decreased and became limited. Yet, orientation/sides of wooden blocks were discovered to have significant effects to the building. As height is one of the key aims of the task, our blocks stood on its side instead, resulting in the same height using half the number of blocks. However, contacted surface area of each block is reduced, decreasing the spread of load in each level. Arguably, this reduces stability. Thankfully, wood is hard, rigid and stiff, allowing the structure to stand. If the material was malleable or lacked hardness, risk of collapsing is more likely.

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To experiment with the interaction between composition structure and loads, a mini-cantilever was created on the side of our tower. Merely half a side of the blocks were compressed by the walls of the tower, the cantilever stood, acting as an external dead load. Even said so, cantilevers appear to be undesirable for a tower that is concerned with load and compression as it may affect the central line of balance. Looking at fig. X, assuming that the material was softer and more pliable, when load is applied to the cantilever, tension is present in the top whilst the bottom undergoes compression. This bends the block towards gravity, which may result in imbalance. However, as the material is hard and rigid MDF blocks and that load is applied on the tower rather than on the lever (Fig.x), the cantilever stands stably without affecting the levels of compression resistance of the structure.

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Even though we were unable to imitate the composition of the renaissance, medieval, gothic and roman mass structures, there was one type we could imitate: Egyptian pyramids.

Egyptian pyramids utilize merely a few types of same shaped blocks to build up a stable structure (I identified 3 types of shapes in Fig.X, categorized with color codes). Hence, bringing this concept into our tower enabled us to divert load in a very stable manner. Wooden MDF Blocks of the same shape and size were provided as the only materials that we could utilize for our tower. This poses both potential and limitations for this task.

Different types of mass structures for arches were introduced. The construction of Renaissance, Medieval and Gothic arches resembled each other in a sense that they all utilize flat panels. Particularly, the Gothic mass structure allows even very thin materials to stand stably by diverting the direction of the load. Used by many modern architecture, it appears to be a stable method which makes use of minimum materials. However, as we were given blocks of the same size and shape, we weren’t able to increase height while

reducing material as these examples have done. The roman’s arch, however, follows a different concept, with one or a few key pieces in the center that holds the compressing forces from the top and sides, along with custom shaped blocks that align next to the key piece. However, given blocks were cubic, and absence of fillers like concrete (or clay for the scale of this project) make it impossible for the structure to hold up. Blocks needed to be cut in order to distribute load evenly.

These blocks with the same size and shape allowed us to interlayer in the same way of a common brick wall. This repetition enabled extremely high resistance to compression and load. Instead of fillers, however, we left a gap between each block.

Blocks were eventually layered up cylindrically, with a larger volume in the bottom and smaller volume near the top (just like a pyramid). However, with a cone shape, the shrinking circumference made us change orientation of number of blocks. This however does not affect compression resistance.

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A load test was applied to our tower to examine the resistance to compression of our structure as well as the limitations of our structure. Stationary load was applied directly above our tower.

While the MDF blocks would withstand high levels of compression, the balance was crucial in order to keep the tower stable. As the tip of our tower had a surface area of 3 blocks, it was difficult to balance the load. If Load was unevenly placed, load would spread to one side, leading to a collapse. Yet, if load was centrally placed, it would be evenly distributed and would maintain a stable structure.

When the tower is applied with external dead load in a linear downward action, the MDF blocks undergo compression, with gravitational force pulling the load in the downward direction. The hardness of the MDF blocks allow them to withstand compression, creating an even force both upwards and downwards, until it is evenly distributed on the ground (Fig.x). This results in a stable structure that resists loads that are even heavier than the mass of the tower itself. However, the tower has significant limitations, as it cannot withstand force/ load from any direction other than from top downwards. Tension and shear would most likely lead to a collapse (Fig.X). This is due to the imbalance of forces acted on the tower. For example, if a force comes from the right towards the left, the right force would be much greater than the left, resulting in uneven distribution of force and hence a collapse.

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Our structure was tallest out of the group. It took form of an ‘A’ shape, somewhat resembling the structure of a elongated pyramid, with a larger volume at the lower levels compared to the reducing volumes as we reached the tip. This enabled a fair distribution of load.

Another group made a tower that resembled an hourglass. This group’s tower slightly shorter than ours, yet it appears to utilize less materials due to the small circumference throughout. This structure failed the load test, likely due its tight center where all load is focused/redirected, making it difficult to balance.

This group unfortunately did not complete their tower, as their arch did not stand. Having observed their structure, I believe the wall was built in a patternless –or even random– manner, using stacks of blocks of different thickness in each layer, resulting in a structure that does not stand.

Unfortunately a photo was not taken before this structure collapsed from the ‘minimalizing blocks’ test. Though the structure was wide and stable, only 2 blocks were taken away before the structure fell.

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New knowledge on Material properties, structural properties and constructing processes are briefly summarized in the mind map and reflected on the left.

Gathered information as a whole The types of structure systems (such as envelope, frame, membrane) provided me with basic foundations on how a building is constructed, and through real-world examples (such as the Olympic stadiums), I saw the importance of the surrounding environment when deciding upon the choice of structure system. For example, the poor land quality of hackney of London resulted in many ‘frame/skeletal’ structures to reduce mass and load onto the ground.

◇ How new knowledge can be applied ◇ To future projects The various types of joints enabled me to visualize how a building is constructed. In future projects I would need to consider this attribute, determining the suitable type of joint depending on the desired modes of action.

◇To future career The notion of sustainable buildings made me realize how a building concerns much further than just the form and structure, but also its environmental, social, economical and experiential impact. In the future career, I may look at sustainability as the root/main criteria of a design.

◇ Questions raised: * how is sustainability of a building measured? *would energy efficient buildings be the solution to overpopulation? *as the cradle-to-grave approach concerns design for disassembly and planned obsolescence, how could a building use this approach?

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Technical aspects of our structure is analyzed, including the impact of the thickness and orientation of the strip, the strongest cross section of the strip and the limitations for design structure.

As we wanted to create a deck that resembled the ‘I’ beam, the strongest beam structure, we attempted to place an additional layer to the base, not only increasing its thickness, but also preventing tension. A top layer would was not placed due to time constraints and limited materials. However, placing another strip on top may prevent compression and larger top surface area enables easier balance for blocks.

The orientation of timber Thickness enables balsa to reinforce itself and reduces chances of collapsing. As we tilted its orientation towards the side, balsa stands greater stresses as it counteracts the tension on top and compression on the bottom (http:// www.exploratorium.edu ,2000). However, this poses another problem, as the significantly reduced top surface area makes it difficult to balance MDF blocks on it.

The bridge was unable to be extended through the bottom as the nature of the table did not have a flat covered leg. Hence, the deck was developed on top instead, pulling load from bottom up rather than supporting upwards from below.

(Duan, 2014)

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Technical aspects of our structure is analyzed, including the strongest tower, brace and node positioning under limited resources of materials, and the composition of joints.

The positions of joints were also an important consideration for the structure as they are merely temporarily joined, bearing small loads for compression and tension.

As we had limited material, our tower was placed centrally. Ideally, repeated multiple towers would be placed to even out load distribution. However, we created one tower, rooting up from the center of the bridge like so below: Due to time constraints, we spontaneously improvised the directions of cables. The final structure had a total of 4 cables, with two outer ones symmetrically placed from the top of the tower to the near-end points of the deck and another two asymmetrically placed further in to the tower, but having different distances from the pivot point.

<45 °

This sparked thoughts on which placement of cables would be strongest to bear loads acting against the tower. Though not applied to our structure, the following shows 4 possible connections of the cables along with the strongest to weakest positioning when bearing load.

<45°

>45

>45°

45°

1/Strongest: a 45° triangle would be strongest as load would be distributed evenly and would resist more lateral force than the steeper brace 3/quite strong: even distribution of load but still has larger yield, giving potential for compression/tension. 4/weakest: centralized node allows large horizontal yield, easily enabling compression for top and tension for bottom 2/moderately strong: a tall brace would take a larger yield, but downwards force will not significantly affect strength. However, uses excess materials however.

Eventually, we placed the strips of balsa to the sides of each other as the contact surface area would be highest (as opposed to placing above/ below each other where contact area would be extremely small).

However, placing to the sides (method 2) as we did, is not necessarily strongest. As the bridge is composed of three strips, the central strip is crucial for holding the loads. Method 3 would be the strongest structure, as loads may be evenly distributed across the strip and easily move downwards accommodated with gravitational pull. Method one would bear too much load, pulling side strips down as well.

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Materials acted as a limitation to the structure, with only limited materials available and a restricted size and availability, significantly affecting the strength of the structure and the stress points .

The materials for joints were significant in shaping the strength of the bridge, as each material has its properties that determine whether the joint, a highly stressed point of the structure, may withstand great loads.

The set 600mm X 100mm X 2mm balsa wood acted as a limitation to the task. It was concluded that the less pieces used, the less joints will be present, which would reduce the load bearing points. Hence, a decision is made to utilize the least pieces as possible. From this, as the distance between the two tables were 1600mm, the balsa piece had to at least be divided into three smaller pieces vertically, generating a total of 1800mm in length, in which 100mm of wood is topped over the tables on each side, and two joints.

However, we required strips for towers, cables and hangers in addition to the stiffening truss, resulting in very thin, straw-like pieces of balsa that did not bare much load. Assuming there were no size restrictions, our bridge would likely have a much thicker width (to fit the MDF blocks) whilst keeping the same, thick height. Ideally, an ‘I’ shaped beam would desirably bear most load.

Various mediums for joints were available. Most were utilized in our structure. These mediums include:

Balsa is an inherently weak material, as it is a: ● lightweight ● somewhat pliable, ● low density soft wood. It is arguably stronger in tension than compression, making it prone to snapping under large loads, especially dynamic loads (like vehicles in the real world). Hence, balsa is not the ideal material for bridge making as its stiffness makes the bridge very prone to snapping and breaking when under stressing loads. Hardwoods, or even metal, would be much stronger in terms of withstanding compression and tension forces for bridges in the real world.

Superglue: very strong bonding for plastic, leather and skin but no apparent affects on timber and takes drying time.

all purpose adhesives: long drying time and no immediate affect when still in liquid form. Very thick substance which may act as excess load on bridge.

PVA glue: Ideal adhesive for bonding timber but long drying time. Hence no immediate effect.

Masking tape: immediate effect, but bonding strength depends on tension of tape when applied to joint. Easily detached from wood when loosely stripped.

clear plastic tape: similar to masking tape, but stronger bonds when tape overlaps itself.

Pins: acts as a fixed pin joint, preventing bending or action from any direction.

blue tacks: immediate effect, fills in gaps but extremely pliable and elastic. Not suitable for fixing strong joints for a load bearing bridge. Also acts as load.

Our structure utilizes superglue wrapped in clear tape, whilst using bluetack to secure ends to the tables. However, the bluetack's elasticity is what led to our structure ‘bowing’, eventually collapsing.

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Analysis on the main reasons behind the structure’s incompetence, the predictions of potential results (assuming variables were modified/improved) and recommendations for the whole bridge structure have been applied to our bridge as we observed the results through the load bearing test.

Assuming we had no limitation in material availability and time constraints, the following would be my recommended bridge structure:

With a double, thick base, tower and cables, our bridge was intentionally built to prevent load from snapping in the center and twisting. However, our structure disregarded the high potential for bowing, the ability to bend sideways. This is likely as stress attempts to go through the easiest load path, and as moving downwards was more difficult (due to cross section thickness in relation to top surface area), load is likely forced towards the side.

There would be two arched layers, with many repeated towers along the arches, with a central tower at the peak height. The intercrossing cables would form a repeated pattern to distribute load evenly, presuming dynamic loads such as large vehicles would pass by. Arches were also chosen, as through time, the structure will:

Yet, bowing would unlikely occur if endpoints were thoroughly stabilized into the table, as load would be unable to be diverted sideways as well. A real bridge would likely be fixed into a foundation (with a rolling node) permanently securing the bridge. However as we could only create temporary joints to the table surface, we utilized MDF blocks to stop sideways action. Gaps were filled with bluetack to further secure its position. However, as blocks were asymmetrically placed and that blue tack is very Assuming end points were pinned into the table securely and that the pliable, it did not successfully withstand the load scale was larger so that blocks could be easily balanced on the surthat is bearing sideways. face area of the bridge, our bridge appears to be able to withstand 40+ blocks worth of load due to its thickness from the orientation, Hence, beginning with an arch shape appears to bear more downwhere load could divert neither sideways or downwards. ward load.

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Comparisons were drawn to compare the strengths and limitations of different structures, investigating how each structure failed and the purposes was behind the collapses. Comparing other structures can increase understanding towards constructing concepts, ignite inspiration for future constructing concepts and see what could be prevented in the future.

Our structure merely held 6 MDF blocks as they were unable to balance on our minimal surface area. However, it is predicted that our bridge could easily hold more than 45 blocks if blocks were balanced and the ends were secured to the tables, due to the orientation of the balsa panel.

This bridge utilizes two thin strands of balsa wood and small steps to place the MDF blocks, a structure resembling a rope ladder. Connections are made using masking tape. However, the bridge collapsed with merely 6 blocks, as the core strips placed in the center did not withstand the downward load, snapping in the middle. This is likely due to the thin cross section of the strip.

This bridge has a similar concept with group 1’s structure, except that they oriented the core strips to the side and used pins to secure the ‘steps’. This bridge withstood 24 blocks before twisting to one side where blocks slid off. The structure likely twisted instead of snapping due to the stronger resistance to bend downwards, yet the length and load was unevenly distributed between the two core strips.

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Gathered information as a whole New understanding to the foundations of a structure ena bled me to see how a structure withstands external forces such as wind and sheer through its footings and foundations. This also raised my awareness to the ground/soil quality, and that the given landscape is a crucial element to the structure. Even if the structure has an aesthetically appealing form or a certain functionality, if it does not complement the landscape, it will not stand, defeating the purpose of the structure.

◇ How new knowledge can be applied ◇ To future projects Justification behind material choices in various sites really allowed me to understand how the material properties of concrete, bricks, stones and steel can significantly complement or hinder the function of the structure. In turn, a more detailed analysis of materials would be conducted for future projects.

◇To future career Acknowledging the issues that arose within the pavillion project enabled me to see the realistic problems that may occur during a real construction and that these unexpected problems may possibly cause delays. This acts as a reminder to prepare even small details to avoid delays and using more budget.

◇ Questions raised: *What is the difference between a constructing system and a structural system? *Why is a stretcher face brick pattern the most common? *if an anticlockwise moment is negative and a clockwise moment is positive, isn’t it just a matter of viewing perspective? (a moment may be clockwise looking from one side but turns into anticlockwise when viewed from another angle)

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Having visited 5 different sites within the Parkville campus of university of Melbourne, general comparison of structural systems, materials and structural properties is conducted.

DETAILS AREAS EXPLORED: *Brick wall behind pavilion *concrete club rooms *timber and metal structure SYSTEM: Hybrid system MATERIALS: Bricks, timber, concrete STUCTUAL PROPERTIES: weep holes

DETAILS AREAS EXPLORED: *fabric membrane roofing *metal joints *reinforced steel wire rope SYSTEM: fabric membrane system MATERIALS: fabric membrane, stainless steel. STUCTUAL PROPERTIES: tension, steel joints, tension in wire ropes

DETAILS AREAS EXPLORED: *steel staircase *beam joints

DETAILS AREAS EXPLORED: *underground car park *concrete column

SYSTEM: Skeletal/framing system MATERIALS: stainless steel and galvanized steel STUCTUAL PROPERTIES: moments, wire ropes tension

SYSTEM: Solid system MATERIALS: concrete STUCTUAL PROPERTIES: pad footing, reinforced concrete, water drainage

DETAILS AREAS EXPLORED: *Lot 6 cafĂŠ exterior with beam and column *lot 6 interior *water proofing system SYSTEM: Skeletal system MATERIALS: steel, membrane, polyester reinforcement fabric STUCTUAL PROPERTIES: moment equilibrium, beam load, water proofing

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Construction system, materials, sketches of joints and context of the oval sports pavilion site, including the club rooms, brick walls, seating and meeting rooms.

Hybrid structure Mainly framing system made with steel Mechanical systems– lights, solar, chimney (for hot air rising) Enclosure systems– drop glass walls and doors. Glass is considered as tertiary structural system as the structure will not collapse when glass is removed.

Stretcher Layout The brick wall has an evident combination of brick layering (simplistic/common methods, including stretcher and soldier placement. This can pattern) emphasize tectonics and aesthetic attributes (Sovinski, 1999). Mortar is raked; rain would fall along the surface of the brick wall. However, a weep hole is present to solve rainwater drain- Soldier Layout age. (Stronger compression strength)

Raked mortar

Slabs of concrete that is made by timber formwork is the vertical member that makes the wall. As timber Formwork acts as a mold, concrete has a timber patterned finish. Concrete, made from gravel, cement and water allows reinforcement, is unreactive, uses little energy to create and hence is cost effective but may absorb water when long term exposed to it or contrastingly shrink when too dry.

The gap between bricks allow rainwater or moisture from the high pressure atmosphere into a medium pressure air cavity behind the bricks. Water droplets and moisture is expected to fall through the water proofing membrane and slide back out into the atmosphere (James & Kirkup, 2013).

The site was traditionally a very well respected and cherished area by its users (mainly university students, sports teams and the Melbourne university sports department). Hence, there is a need to maintain reputation of the site. A historical stone in the site is well preserved within the area. Due to a high demand for a better pavilion facility, the completion of the new oval pavilion was built in 2013.

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Construction system, materials, sketches of joints and context

Uses a typical fabric membrane system. Structure wholly relies on tensile strength.

Tensile structure using a canopy shaped fabric membrane as part of the enclosure system. Fabric membrane is stretched in towards a hole to hold rain so mass from rain does not overbear the structure, leading either: *the joint to break from tension as fabric membrane detaches from structure and falls. *if the joint is strongly bonded, overload may collapse due to the bursting of the fabric membrane.

Steel cables transmit external loads to the ground anchors through tensile force (Ching, 2008). Hence, the diameter of the steel wires and the material property is significant in withstanding extremely high ten-

Unlike fiberglass, the fabric membrane allows curvature, enabling any objects, substances or rain to fall along its smooth curves and into the hole. It is stretched to “sharp curvatures in opposite directions� to reduce the extremely high tensile strength (Ching, 2008). The fabric membrane and the ground is connected with a steel wire rope that is spun and reinforced to strengthen its tensile strength.

The north court is traditionally utilized for special events such as opening days and markets. It is located on the north side of union house and mainly attracts university students as main users. However, human flow may significantly vary according to time of visit (lostoncampus).

move whilst still under tension when dynamic forces are experienced (such as wind and air resistance). The joint is high in tensile strength, withstanding the tension of the upwards vertical action from the fabric membrane.

The cables/ties were connected to a two-pin universal joint, with the pin joints facing perpendicular orientations (Bond, 1910). The ability to rotate enables the membrane to freely

How load is diverted from ground through joint to tie.

Tension and rotating action of each section of joint.

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Construction system, materials, sketches of joints and context on the stairs on the west end of union house.

‘I’ shaped universal beam is strong in both compression and tension, making it ideal for a tensile structure as this. In this staircase, the ends of the ‘I’ shaped beam under the staircase is seen to be joined to the wire ropes and onto other ‘I’ shaped beams on the wall. The ‘C’ shaped channel beam is used for the side frame for the staircase for safety regulations, likely to keep one side flat so users will not trip or get hurt.

The steel staircase of the west side of union court is part of a skeletal/frame system.

Fixed joint

Unlike most systems where load is diverted to the ground, load of this staircase is diverted to the wall. The ground merely acts as a bracing member for stabilization.

The frame is mainly made by two types of steel: *stainless steel (for handrails and baluster): the cold formed steel is covered with zinc, resulting in a lighter mass, thinner circumference and smoother surface for physical hand contact. However, it is too expensive to be made for the whole staircase. *galvanized steel (for staircase body and beams): a more cost effective alternative. Produced from hot molds, resulting in a heavy bodied structural capacity, suitable for live loads from users. Generally unreactive resulting in non-rusty structure. Steel for steps are made in a textural mold to increase friction and prevent slipping.

The beam orientation is slightly orientated upwards so that tensile force acting downwards would in a long run pull the beam into a linear angle. On the other hand, if beam is parallel to the ground in the beginning, the pulling force may result in the beam facing downwards, significantly reducing strength and may result in a collapse.

Bent beam structure is likely customized and prefabricated.

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The staircase is located at the west entrance of union house, assisting users, typically university students, from the ground level to the second level. The union house is the center of extracurricular activities, restaraunts, retails and services provided by the student union (lostoncampus). Hence, students would traditionally enter the building (and use the staircase) during its rush hours of 11:00am-2:00pm. However, since the west end is not the main entrance, there is not a vast amount of human flow in this area.

The staircase utilizes the same universal two-pin joint for the membrane structure in northern court, bearing significant tensile forces from attached structural ties (Bond, 1910).

similar structural systems are seen around our surrounding. Another example of holding a vertical load using a beam to lift it up is seen in Swanston street, where pedestrian bridge is supported by beams from the tram. There is, however, a visible curve of the beam as it is starting to undergo compression on its top surface and tension on its bottom surface. However, instead of diverting load onto the wall, the load is spread through the tensile cables.

The reinforced wire ropes were made using spun wires, increasing tensile strength. Diameter of the wire rope is also evidently larger than ties used for the baluster to increase tension bearing capacity. Cables (particularly the core) need to have high tensile strength to transfer load from staircase to the beams. After a long period of time, beams on the wall may lose strength and that wire ropes may become loose because of the reduction of tension. All the load from the heavy bodied galvanized beam would be pulled downward from gravitational force if that was the case. Hence, A supporting column placed under the staircase to bear compression is recommended. It is, however, unlikely for the beams to loose strength as it is built into the wall as part of the structure, and it is (certifiedslings, 2014)

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Construction systems (particularly the drainage system), materials, sketches of joints, faults and context of the underground car park of south lawn.

The south lawn underground carpark is a solid system made purely of reinforced and curved concrete.

As one of the main feature of this construction system, the central drainage system collects water and moisture from the clay and soil of the tree, piping through the center of the column and out. However, concrete solid structure is not resilient to drainage faults.

The underground is built from reinforced concrete. However, as concrete absorbs water, salt The tree, the soil/clay for the roots lines up with the column and lime deposits can be seen and acts as the center of mass. All loads on the surface (both dead and live) are diverted into the center of the col- as white specks/efflorescence are visible on the surface of umn and into the foundation/ground. the columns, not only affecting Center of mass aesthetics but also may reduce material quality. Efflorescence reflects the drainage problems that potentially increases risk for the structure.

Efflorescence (drainage problem from salt deposits)

A darker patch of reinforced concrete is visible to cover the exposed concrete underneath. If concrete is exposed, it may rust and crack, leading to a faulty column. However, Though the columns are connected as part of the ceiling, they patched reinforced concrete are individual and separated in case one column fails (or semay affect aesthetics. verely damaged by vehicles). Since columns have a point load, it utilizes pad footing. Columns are intentionally disconnected from one another.

Reinforced concrete patch (to cover up exposed concrete).

The underground south lawn car park is an “engineering feat”, utilizing concrete columns as a drainage system for the trees above surface (lostoncampus). The west entrance of the car park in particular features a decorated sculpture ‘atlantes’ (1880), acting as public art. Users mainly include university staff and students and is built in 1972. Due to long exposure to the atmosphere, the car park currently has visible faults.

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Construction systems, materials, sketches of joints, aesthetics and context of the ‘Lot 6’ café.

Load diverts from the center of mass -> retaining wall of basement -> foundation Load diverts from the center of mass -> retaining wall of basement -> foundation

A bonded water proofing membrane, a black sticky surface is bonded to the ground to prevent water from entering the ceiling of the basement. Rainwater will be spread along the artificial grass and eventually evaporated.

The outdoors beam has a fixed joint to the wall, with load acting upon a column. There is equilibrium between the clockwise moment of the beam (distance being from fixed joint pivot point to end of beam and force as downward inter-load from self-mass) and the column which enable the column to withstand the compressing forces without collapsing. However, this beam is placed purely for aesthetic purposes. The interior beam, however, has a functional purpose in addition to aesthetic purposes. The beam withstands compressing forces from the opposing walls, supporting and holding walls to stand straight without collapsing inward.

Possible retaining wall structures (abuildersengineer, 2014)

The lot 6 café stands in between the estern resource center and frank tate, attracting many customers from the general public and university staff, but main customers remain as university students. Its modern style interior with the raw ‘beam’ themed décor lead to existing constructing decisions, such as the outdoor beam for aesthetic reasons and water proof artificial grass.

A retaining wall is placed to enclose the basement below the grade, and to prevent the ground from collapsing inward into the basement. The retaining wall also provides support for the superstructure above (Ching, 2008). Reaction forces

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Gathered information as a whole I understood the concept and the technical structural processes that occur in a flooring system, especially for concrete formwork. I also learnt how to understand and interpret architectural and structural drawings, discovering the process of how buildings are formed from paper to a three dimensional, to scale structure.

◇ How new knowledge can be applied: ◇ To future projects The knowledge to flooring systems enabled me to see how the structural formation of the waffle pod during our site visit was built and how it withstand all loads from the superstructure. The emphasis on scale also enlightened me to see the importance of scale and accuracy of the buildings as they would be magnified a lot in the real world. Hence, accuracy and detail becomes a crucial factor in future projects.

◇To future career Ability to read through and understand the architectural drawings were significant for my future career, as I would know how my design and ideas should be presented through to builders in order to turn my ideas into real, standing structures. The set of drawings provided me with a clear vision of how I should approach architectural designs and elevated my awareness to the required level of detail and accuracy for my drawings, and that inaccurate details can lead to a failing structure or even potentially pose safety risks. There is also increased awareness to the significance of collaboration between different positions in the building and planning field. Looking at the architectural drawings, I am now cautious that the engineer’s structural drawings tie in very closely with architectural drawings and that a building design influences far more than just the structure itself, but also has impact on the environmental, social, economical aspects around the site.

◇ Questions raised: Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Question sheet about the sports pavilion drawing set is answered. The question sheet enables me to foresee how real-life construction is built through an architect’s design and drawings.

1.1 List the types of information found in the title block on the floor plan page:

Consultant names and contact details

Keyplan

Drawing title and number (including the north point and document control statuses)

Client and project names

Who and what part of the architectural drawing was issued and when changes were made.

1.2 Why might this information be important? It may provide the client/builders a general overview of the project and the contacts if further inquiries were needed. Also gives details on who was responsible of the drawing and codes for navigation across the drawing sets.

2.2 Provide an example of the dimensions as they appear on this floor plan? What units are used for the dimensions? Dimensions are shown through the scale, which was 1:1000 (1cm on the drawing = 1000cm on site) on site plan drawing Dimensions are also shown in the codes, which navigate to constructing details through the pages 2.3 Is there a grid? What system is used for identifying the grid lines? Yes, there is a grid system. Points are navigated by a letter (horizontal) to a number (vertical). Grid lines are represented as a long-dash, short-dash, long-dash.

2.4 What is the purpose of a legend? To identify the structural and material elements of area while only utilizing short labels and abbreviations on it. (e.g. Fiberglass sheet roof) 2.5 Why are some parts of the drawing annotated? Illustrate how the annotations are associated with the relevant part of the drawing. Parts of the drawings such as rooms, footpaths and gates are presented to show details of structural parts, instructions and show elevations/sections. INSERT DRAWING HERE 2.6 Illustrate how references to other drawings are shown on the plan. What do these symbols mean? References to other drawings are shown in symbols with the drawing number, so users could navigate through the pages to view details.

2.1 What type of information is shown in this floor plan?

Scale

Ariel view of the site (site plan)

Labels/annotations

Extent of work and builder’s site

Area schedule—room number, room name, area

General notes

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Answers to question sheet about the sports pavilion drawing set is continued. Here, the plan and elevations are focused upon.

2.7 How are windows and door identified? Provide an example of each. Is there a rationale to their numbering? What do these numbers mean? Can you find the answer somewhere in the drawings? Dimensions are shown through the scale, which was The door tags and room number symbols are located next to the window and door representations, where meaning could be found in legend

2.9 Are some areas of the drawing clouds? Why? Yes. Some parts are clouded to indicate changes made to the design from the original plan. 3.3 What types of levels are shown on the elevations? Illustrate how levels are shown in relation to the elevation. Shown through the finished floor levels, represented through a linear horizontal line with symbolic abbreviations found in legend. In this case, it is the Finished Floor Levels.

3.1 What type of information is shown in this elevation? How does it differ from the information shown on the plan? The elevation is different as it shows the side of a building wall instead of the floor. There is a wall view showing spatial arrangement on the outer envelope of the structure rather than the spatial arrangement of rooms.

2.8 Illustrate how floor levels are noted on the plan. Indicated by finished floor level symbol, where Meaning is found in legend.

3.4 Is there a grid? If so, how/where is it shown? Yes— However, unlike plan (where grid lines go in both vertical and horizontal directions), grid is only shown vertically with labels above it. Like site plans, the grids are shown with Long-dash, Short-dash, Long-dash and short-dashes.

3.2 Are dimensions shown? If so, how do they differ from the dimensions of the plan? Provide an example of the dimensions as they relate to the elevation. Dimensions of the elevation and plan are similarly shown in a scale or through more detailed drawings navigated through code abbreviations.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Answers to question sheet about the sports pavilion drawing set is continued. Here, the elevation and section drawings of the site is focused upon.

3.5 What types of information on the elevations are expressed using words? Illustrate how this is done. Aside from general information of title blocks, General areas e.g. ‘new glazed doors to match existing’ and area abbreviations are shown on elevations, labelled with solid arrows.

4.3 Provide examples of how different materials are shown on the sections. 4.1 What type of information is shown in this section? How does Section building details are shown in label from detail section it differ from the information shown on the plan and elevation? to material code. Location of rooms across section, including basements, footings and foundations. Topography of landscape could also be seen. 4.2 Illustrate how the section drawing differentiates between building elements that are cut through and those that are shown in elevation (beyond).

4.4 Find where this section is located on the plans. Found in the section marker symbol.

3.6 Find where this elevation is located on the plans The elevation is found through the section markers that look like so:

Elevation number

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Answers to question sheet about the sports pavilion drawing set is continued. Here, the detailed drawings are focused upon.

5.1 What sort of things are detailed?

Material type

Brick courses

Measurements (in millimeters)

Joint details

5.2 Are the details compressed using break lines? Why? Yes, to save space on print, while accurate dimensions could still be shown without drawing the structure to scale. Repeated information of the elongated structure could be left out.

5.3 Provide examples of how different materials are shown on drawings at this scale? Materials are shown using symbolic representation of materials. Find the locations of these details on the plans, elevations and sections. From the plan, identify the section symbols ↓ From the section plan, identify detailed areas/rooms ↓ From the detailed areas/rooms, identify detailed composition of materials and joints.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Having visited 5 different sites within the Parkville campus of university of Melbourne, general comparison of structural systems, materials and structural properties is conducted. How do the architectural and structural drawings differ? The architectural drawings and structural drawings are in many ways similar/same (such as the layout: from a broad overview to plans to section to details, information in title block, etc.). However, elements of the drawings differ between them, such as:

Ho does information in your drawing set compare to what you observed at site last week? Perhaps the most obvious were the in situ improvised elements that were not put on/planned out in the drawings, but turned about during the site visit. For examples, pillar marks that were made during formwork processes were kept and exposed. Although the design may have been to implement metal chips, it appears to have been left out intentionally in the end. How does scale of the building compare to the scale of the drawings? The scale is much larger on site than the full drawing of the floor plan/elevation/sections, and the view-

ing level is from the ground upwards whereas views of the drawing set would centralize the structure. Yet, many aspects of the detailed sections (such as joints) are covered up in the real site. The scale of the detailed drawings are much larger than some of the elements on site, such as the water proofing mechanical system.

Aspect

Architectural drawings Structural drawings

Views

Plan, elevation, section and detail. Only one 3D view from detailed drawing.

Including all types in architectural drawings in addition to isometric and rendered drawings.

Schedule

Schedule shows room names and areas

Included detailed constructing schedule with mark and size measurements

Location

Shows location through No indication of surrounding a medium of a photo- buildings. graph

Section views

Section views are 2 dimensional and selected

Shown as 3 dimensional rendered CAD drawings with selected elements shown only (e.g. frames)

General notes Small section of notes only when needed.

Full sheets with general notes, instructions and safety notices.

Existing struc- No photos of previous ture structure.

Photos of existing details of the structure with annotations on areas that need to be altered/ preserved

Dimension tick Utilizes the architectur- Filled arrow tick al tick

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Wood refers to the unprocessed and unmanufactured natural material whereas timber is the processed structural material used for construction.

It enables builders to plan the scope and possibility of the project. Also for safety planning and ethical considerations.

● ● ●

Reinforcement steel bars and waterproofing strategies are used.

● ● ●

bracing

Feasibility studies Operate in commercial reality or hybrid structure? Find assistance from a contractor

● ●

Timber can defect in various ways such as: ● Lightweight and high compressive strength makes it a popular material for frame/skeletal structural systems. ● Requires termite treatment or finishing as it could rot or wrap

Uses different materials than real world May be absent of construction details scaled preview enables tests & experiments

Timber is lightweight, cost effective and easily cut into columns and beams.

Setting oneself apart by implementing innovative design Consider more than financial aspects. Look for quality and longevity

Short columns ●

Long columns

Fail by crushing (shear) Less than 1:12 Thicker cross section

● ● ●

Usually main components of wall systems, envelope systems and structural framing.

Fail by buckling More than 1:12 Thinner cross section

CONTRAFLEXTURE: Effective length be tween points

Usually studs between shorter spans such as doors and window systems for compressive resistance.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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The process of the scaled model is generally described.

Measurements of structural frame is accurately extracted from the design drawings. However, unknown measurements were merely scaled to the size for the model (1:200), cut the pieces and assembled them together. From this, it appears that drawing plans may be inaccurate at times while print may still greatly differ from real world structures.

As the structure was completed, it was combined with other group’s structural models for comparison . Utilizing mounting board/foam board, Structural elements were created. They were bonded together using temporary joints such as Clear tape, adhesive or pins.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Fail by sagging in the middle. Columns not thick and strong enough.

Originally, Hollow columns using card were made to represent concrete columns. However, iwe changed to utilizing foam board (due to time constraints) This enables the model to be more lightweight (causing less dead load and pressure to the ground) but makes it have weak resistance to shear forces or tension.

Because it is considered as a long column (short side more than the ratio of 1:12), we took shape of a box beam to prevent buckling.

Our structure is merely a section of the sports pavilion, resulting in a form of a second class lever. Hence, a upwards lifting force is required at the end to hold the imbalanced c center of mass.

Pivot point

The thick foam board has relatively low compressive strength and shear resistance. Because of the weak material, When load is placed, the structure tends to collapse in the center. Since the columns are non-hollow and filled with air gaps, weak tensile strength was expected. However, surprisingly, tensile strength was rather strong. This might be due to the shape of a box beam, diverting load in both horizontal and vertical directions. Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Material properties, opportunities and limitations were considered. The choice of bonding and joints also effect the strength and structure.

Pins can easily cause folds

There is 3 layers of sheet lining that strengthens foam board (as opposed to just foam in the middle).. The additional layer of sheet further enables load to be evenly distributed.

Pins have an immediate bond as it uses a small surface area to pierce through the foam. This is particularly useful for foam as it has low density and air gaps.

However, it is one directional (no securing member such as a nut and bolt) and gives room for columns/ beams to rotate and move, which is not ideal,

Though there is immediate effect, tape may contribute to the load. When loosely applied, can leave space for movement But when too tightly wrapped around foam, may tighten foam beams and columns, affecting its load bearing abilities.

The foam board we used may easily bend, though there is flexibility, preventing it from breaking or cracking even when bent severely. This provides flexibility, but is low in strength.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Comparison with other groups and the combination of the overall back section of the oval sports pavilion structure was identified. Their advantages and limitations were also stated.

This is our structure when two groups are combined. There appears to be a slight sag in the center as that is the position of the center of mass and that both models rely on interlocking joints (no external joints implemented.)

â?śUnlike our structure, this model utilized strips of corrugated cardboard that are approximately equal in thickness. This model utilizes clear tape as the joint.

â?ˇThis group collaborated with our group, sharing the same materials (form board) and processes.

Strengths: the form is strong and load could be easily diverted downwards onto the ground easily through the triangular bracing members.

Strengths: foam is lightweight, easy to cut and assemble.

Limitations: The material are single layer of thin sheet of corrugated cardboard, lacking compressive strength when load is applied. Though the form is strong, weak material makes the structure unable to bear loads. Though immediate and has no drying time, clear tape is merely a weak joint that allows movement of the structural members. Hence, when load is applied, clear tape will unlikely hold the structural members.

Limitations: due to low density, easy to bend, buckle and crush even when only a small force is applied. The cross braces were the clear strength of the structure, diverting loads evenly towards the ground. Like our structure, since it is merely part of the overall superstructure, it acts as a second class lever and requires an upwards lifting force.

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That it is important to consider the safety persistence, perhaps more than what was expected. Also, how a building could stand out by having revolutionary constructing methods (at the time).

To block direct exposure to sunlight and protect interior from precipitation ● Usually concrete used for roofing tiles in Australia ● Greater than 15° for tile to runoff snow and precipitation

Steel core: square shaped hollow center Hat truss– supporting structure + prevent wind Could originally sustain boing 707, the

Image extracted from: www.sharpprintinginc.com

In domestic housing, eaves are commonly seen.

As metal is highly conductive, in direct sunlight and window cold bridges, heat can get lost if metal used. In fire, metal is not an ideal insulator as well.

It has high shear, tensile and compressive resistance, yet high strength to volume ratio.

Ductile and malleable, whereas some can be melted and casted in mold. suitable for flexible requirements. Extremely conductive: electrical and thermal ●

Concrete is more durable compared to terracotta tiles, which is easy to crack due to brittleness.

Different joints for columns result in different strengths, shapes, forms of deformation and force distribution. joints allow different deflection in certain ways.

Ferrous metals ● Metals with iron– common, hence cheap ● Corrode easily– particularly in contact with saline water. Non-ferrous metals ● Metals without iron—less reactive but more expensive Galvanized steel– protected coating. Has both ferrous and nonferrous advantages.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Brief analysis were described according to other group’s student presentations about their site visits.

This site was different in a way that enclosure and mechanical systems were already completed. It is expected to be completed by January 2014. Main attributes of site:

Lightweight timber frame structure: cheap and reduces time (as opposed to concrete) ● Used plywood for bracing Stud wall with cross bracing used (sheet bracing for second floor)

Highly fire resistance– complies with fire ratings. The site really strives to achieve a for star fire rating for the DCP test. ● Double glazed windows ● Space between walls for acoustics ●Uses fixed joints for all steel joints to comply fire ratings ●Air rated concrete for cladding ●Internal timber door– minimal noise for fire check ●Concrete blocks for reinforcement for fire rating Main problems of the site: ● Soil was too soft– needed to strengthen and reinforce the foundation by incorporating steel and concrete into gravel. ● Because soil quality is improved, footing system only needs to be shallow. Deep footing is not required. Water proofing membrane

Plywood bracing noggings ●

Precast panel walls were used: standardized components, fast construction duration

Uses trenches for beams in the footing system Cover to prevent rubble from contracting building

Water proofing systems around lightweight concrete ● Cotton used to decrease vibration: Acts as an acoustic and thermal insulation Heat flow

Noise/acoustic insulation

Heat trapped in air space

studs

Reduced heat flow

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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General introduction, material usage, joints and main constraints during the construction process was identified and analyzed.

● ● ●

Located in Melton 5 buildings in total, 3 apartments and 2 garages Processes: ● Back units are to be completed before units in front. ● Why not vise versa? if not front would block back.

Steel Tee beams Cross bracing and sheet bracing used to prevent buckling Diagonal stud to support wind and gravity Mainly lightweight timber frame structure used because: ●Cheaper ●Lightweight: less load acting on structure

Garage uses lintel stretcher course and flush mortar joint.

Materials ● Extruded brick/standard modular : Mortar filled in the follow holes to prevent

Chipboard bracing > 60° Cross bracing 30-60° ● Joints: using strip nails as fixed joints, joist hanger with concealed flanges used.

bricks from sliding across each other. Enables higher shear resistance

● Anchor bolts + sill plate an

chors used: easy to imple ment and no noise pollution during the construction pro cess ● Temporary Timber props to support structure

Timber frame is not strong for bearing loads. Solved by implementing 2 pieces timber together. High budget needed for steel frames (approximately $1.1million AUD for whole project / $270,000 AUD per dwelling)

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Plastics expand and contract under weather inconsistencies. Hence, there is a need for detailing.

Decided upon aesthetic requirements, however a gloss finish is easier to clean.

● ●

Rubber has high abrasion resistance, soft and elastic . Waterproof membranes +poor conductivity make it ideal as a sealant.

● ● ●

Resist abrasion, highly elastic and soft Elastomers (synthetic rubbers): Such as silicone Used as sealant, separating metal in gasket. Minimal sunlight exposure Paint: oil based or water based. Protect material + aesthetic quality.

Highly flexible, lightweight (easy to transport) and waterproof. ●

Thermoplastics: remold-able, usually used for piping, insulation, roofing and wall details

Thermosets: shaped once, cannot

Non porous nature. Makes it waterproof

recycle. Waterproof, usually used for insulation or tiles. Image extracted from: news.cision.com

Arches: for spanning, supporting vertical load by axial compression. Mansonry arches Ridged arches: can carry bending Stress ● Domes: spherical surface similar to rotated arch. Circumferential forces– compression in crown, tension in base. Thrust is proportional to total load and span, inversely proportional to rise. ●

prefab

In situ

More standardized components

More customized

Time efficient

Time delays

Requires transportation of final product

Requires transportation of raw materials

Cannot modify once transported

Can modify on spot

Board insulation is more space efficient but more expensive.

Ways to stop water from entering 1. Remove openings 2. Keep water/moisture away openings 3. Neutralize forces that move through openings. ● Acoustic insu● Thermal insuTypes of insulation: ● Bulk insula● Board insula-

buildling: from water lation lation

tion tion

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Structural elements of the site visit were identified and analyzed.

Columns and panels are precast, which: ● Reduces construction speed– merely utilizes 1-2 days to implement ● Is suitable for a smaller scale multi-storey project like this, while in situ may be more suitable for larger scaled projects.

The concrete slab is reinforced by wires that run in both horizontal and vertical axes so that load could be easily spread in both directions, reducing stress on one point and increasing strength.

The building’s main structure relies on a central core, which diverts both live and static loads down into the center and into the ground.

Floor utilizes post tension slabs where exposed cables with a tension wire in the center, are pulled by a machine as concrete is cured, so that the slab would not be pulled downwards by gravitational force.

Reinforcement within columns exposed ready for next floor level

Prefabricated concrete columns

Ferrules are present in walls.

* allows stripping * reduces weight hence reduces load *faster construction period as opposed to other slabs.

Utilizes prefabricated windows from Vietnam, while local bonds and cartilages are used for cladding.

Exposed cables for post tension slab

*drainage channels in balcony *water proofing membrane needed to prevent concrete from absorbing water and expanding *acoustic graded

Location ready to install prefabricated window.

Why prefabricated from Vietnam? ● a lot cheaper than local Australian windows ● But needs to check with authorities to ensure they comply with local Australian safety and quality standards. ● Requires transport from Vietnam to Australia. May delay construction process. Doors are designed by the engineer, and is fire rated. Stairwell The stairwell is isolated from main structure for fire ratings, preventing smoke from entering the stairwell when that is the only external channel out of the building.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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The construction processes are identified and analyzed, including the safety regulations, storage, transport and precision.

*first aid room available *near hospital *safety induction for every worker to ensure they are aware of hazards in the area *solar, acoustic and fire ratings are the overriding principles that are considered.

Spray paint were used to transfer dimensions from the architectural drawings to the real site, ensuring all structures are arranged accurately to make sure the structure will stand.

Temporary screens were placed for tall constructions as this to ensure worker safety. Alike the steel staircase, although not permanent and stable, the screens and stairs merely act as a temporary structure during the construction process. After walls are secured (a few storeys high), these structures will be removed.

● ● ●

Budget Delivery of materials (e.g from china and Vietnam). From this, need to consider lead times Pre-manufactured elements need to satisfy Australian safety and quality standards. Approved by sending samples. ● Sub contract needs to comply with main contract

The visualization of the final building image courtesy to maxtra constructions.

Tower cranes were used after the site was dig up, to transport heavy load structural elements such as beams and precast columns. For safety reasons (especially for high voltage), there is only 7 specific Locations for lifting.

Cranes: Typical first class lever. Benefits from mechanical advantage.

Unlike site 2, mobile cranes High voltage cables were not used as: ● site has power cables that act as a constraint. A mobile crane can alter them, which is unwanted. ● as the building is sandwiched between two other buildings, there is no space for a mobile crane. Tight spacing ● if a mobile crane was used, a road closure would be expected, affecting the public. This was unnecessary and impractical.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Same type of reinforcement seen from previous site, but one is in situ (left) and prefabricated (right).

Unlike the previous site, this site appears to have a larger scale, available space and budget. Hence, in situ formwork is practical and applicable. Timber formwork was seen for concrete columns, which is lightweight and reusable (as it is plastic oriented). Why in situ formwork over prefabricated? *one precast concrete wall is approximately 3 tonnes. Though they built a temporary road, it is vastly difficult to transport batches in minimal runs.

Two way spanning as load is evenly distributed.

Curing formwork

Reinforcing bars

Snap ties concrete

Completed formwork

Another type of formwork, the cylindrical column was featured. However, linear timber formwork is unable to create a round column. Hence, rather than timber or steel, cardboard acts like a mold for concrete pouring. Fiberglass may be used to reinforce the circular columns. Cardboard is stripped once concrete is cured.

Timber planks

yoke

Timber used to form column as concrete cures. batten bracing

Process of concrete pouring, curing and stripping using the ezy tube.

An alternative for concrete columns but much heavier and difficult to implement.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Alike the previous site, a temporary metal staircase was installed to enable access between the gantries and different storeys.

Unlike the previous site, there is space between the building and surroundings. Hence, there is a minor road blockage for mobile vehicle to transport heavy materials. However, this may cause public disturbance.

A gantry is featured to enable walking access through the front. They often have an office within it, however, this site doesn’t.

Light reflective and eye-catching warning signs and safety instructions were seen in many areas across the site. However, the abundance of these signs may overlap and overwhelm builders which in turn may defeat the purpose and result in builders ignoring these signs.

Thin sheet to separate public road from temporary pathway.

Spray painted indications

Load forced on the temporary concrete ground instead of the public road. When unwanted, could be easily removed with the membrane.

To prevent heavy loads from scratching the public road, a membrane and temporary concrete road is built. The minor road would be removed once materials are fully transported. However, having mobile transportation brings many advantages.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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The use of windows and doors is for: ● Aesthetics ● Ventilation ● Sunlight ● Access in and out Cleaning is a major issue

Window should carry load around them rather than through them, so not a wall system.

Describes how the cross sectional area of a structural member (specifically beams) distribute loads as the shape alternates

The universal beam is identified to be the strongest type of beam, resisting rotational, compression as well as tensile forces whilst using least materials.

Door type

features

Found where?

Timber door

Double hinges or sliding doors

Commonly for domestic housing

Aluminum door

frames

Commonly for offices

Steel door

Impact protection, steel jamb

Understanding structural capabilities make certain components stronger or more applicable.

Reduce heat loss/transmission by: *double glazing: retain heat and insulate *air gaps

● ● ●

Toughened glass

Laminated glass

Formers (silica) > fluxes (soda) > stabilizers (limestone) Highly Recyclable Expensive to produce and transport, especially when in large dimensions. Float glass is common for domestic use.

● ●

Transmits light and heat Waterproof, non-porous

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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A 1:1 (in A1 paper size) detailed diagram of a section of the service area of the sports oval pavilion is illustrated with annotated functions.

Bricks as part of the envelope system. Is smaller compared to those of the structural systems

10mm gravel mixed with water to act as bonding agent. Mortar ironed for inner walls whilst raked for outer brick wall.

Cavity flashing directs water (from rain or atmosphere) from the weep hole, down the walls and back out to the atmosphere. Flashing forces water to move in one direction.

Non-standardized bricks as part as the structural system

Enables pressure balance by enabling moisture and rain from atmosphere to enter the weep hole into the gap space between the envelope and structure.

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Particular elements were investigated in further detail with real world photographic comparison and functional analysis.

Ironed mortar Raked mortar

The mortar in the envelope uses raked finishing whilst the structural wall utilizes ironed mortar. This may be dimply due to aesthetic reasons. Ironed mortar is also easiest to complete with a round pointing bar, and as it is not visible from outside, it is likely chosen for ease of construction.

As described in a previous entry of the Log book, the weep hole features in between bricks to allow water from different pressures to stabilize from entering the air gap behind the brick wall. However, unlike the architectural drawings the real weep holes are two bricks higher above ground.

The flexible, plastic membrane is permeable , connecting the air space between the envelope and structural space together. It allows moisture and water back out into the atmosphere.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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Learning loop for week 9, combining information from tutorials and readings.

Materials deteriorate faster when exposed to water, pollution or moisture Gloss surfaces usually age faster (with exception of gloss tiles) Material may age with aesthetics such as copper

*waterproofing *expansion joints *finishes

Detailing shows how constructing materials are put together. ● Movement joints: for soil shrinkage, concrete expansion ● Expansion joints ● Isolation joints ● Control joints Considers heath and safety procedures (fire protection, barriers, qualified materials to Australian standards. Considers clean-ability, constructability and usability.

Common types of composite: 1) Fibre reinforced cement 2) Fiberglass 3) Aluminum sheet composites 4) Timber composites 5) Fibre reinforced polymers

May require treatment, replacement or even fail structural integrity. has economic and timely consequence and produces waste.

May have adjustments according to suitability in real world. A lot of high risk areas may be unidentified.

No additional bonding joints: ● Butt joints ● Interlocking joints (P,R) ● Molded joints (F) Chemically treated joints: ● Welded joints (F) Additional bonds: ● Glued joints (F) ● Bolded joints (P) ● Cable anchors (R, P)

Prevents building from failing by considering material responses to environment and time.

Naomi Jemima Ng/ 699616/ Constructing Environments: Log Book/

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The ‘Campus lab part 2’. Elements and their construction details were identified and analyzed.

As each material behaves really differently when exposed to the atmosphere (sunlight, heat, water, air) joints need to be carefully chosen. Saw cut joints and structural joints were seen in the campus area.

Waterproofing elements such as finishing (with paint, gloss or plastic coating e.g. rubber). This is particularly important for exterior structures that has direct contact with the atmosphere.

t joint

Saw cut joints could however absorb even more moisture and trap water in gaps, expanding concrete even more, increasing chances of cracking.

Saw cu

Why do we need to waterproof? Waterproofing is crucial to keep moisture away: ① from concrete so they do not expand, ② from metal so they do not oxidize and rust. ③ from bricks so they do not shrink.

sketch

Surface runoff

ura ruct

Runoff expected to fall down along steps

nt

l j oi

St

Saw cut joint (cracks along joint)

Textural pads to grip on to shoes to prevent slippery surface

bricks: shrinks as exposed

Tactile indicators pinned into stone. May become loose

Saw cut int

Steel: reacts and rusts with atmosphere. Gaps enable drainage for water runoff.

Structural joint (sealant absorbs compressive and tensile forces) If it was connected, all load would likely be diverted to this intersection spot.

Struct ural jo

Expansion joints

Bluestone: surface wears away over time

Because some sections are hanging off on one side. Different weight resistance needed.

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Construction details in the sports pavilion seminar room in Melbourne University is identified and analyzed.

Runoff when precipitation is present Wall stickers were placed on the interior of the glass to ensure user awareness and prevent users from injuring themselves.

As the pavilion hold curtain walls, there are many openings in which water can enter the interior. Hence, sealant/putty is curved along the windows with additional nails screwed into the window sill so window would be water proofed. A drainage is also seen in the exterior.

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The faults in construction details such as cracking and concrete cancer are identified and analyzed.

Image extracted from kickstock.com

When reinforced steel is exposed, their reactivity enables them to rust, significantly affecting the concrete around them. This can damage the structural integrity of the area. Recommendation: Rather than to replace steel and patch affected area afterwards, strive to make accurate precisions on first attempt. Double checking or expertise inspection may be conducted.

Supposedly crack along the expansion joint

Cracks on ground as load has no where to go when concrete expands. Tends to crack along corners and angles.

Crack forms as bricks shrink Expansion joints and control joints were featured along the sports pavilion ground.

Beginning stage of concrete cancer in Melbourne University

Crack of expansion joints on brick wall of Melbourne university

Recommendations: The more control joints, the less noticeable cracks and reduce cracks (especially angled paths as load is diverted into these joints so they crack along the joints rather than on ground). However, Has aesthetic considerations. Also, more control joints would trap water and moisture as there is precipitation, ironically in turn increasing chances of expansion or reaction.

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The purpose of detailing and detailing in the real world and in architectural drawings is discussed, as well as the consequences of faulty detailing.

Failure to accurately carry out construction details can lead to significant economic consequences. For example, the concrete cancer present on the Frank Tate building requires: Detailing shows how two materials or components are arranged and become part of the structural form. Their interaction to external and internal forces are significant in making the structure stand.

1) 2) 3) 4)

Removal of reinforcing bars New, undamaged bars reinstalled New concrete patches covering affected area Treatment and finishes for new patch

As the whole infected area would need to be reinstalled, there is not only a high economical cost (could be similar to building the area from scratch or possibly even more) but new patches also affect aesthetic appeal as patches are commonly darker and smeared over affected area.

Weep hole higher up than on drawings

Bricks do not contact ground directly

Image extracted from www.plasterforce.com.au

Metal stud to support instead of bricks

Architectural detailed drawings assist builders by showing material arrangement. However, it may significantly differ from the real world construction, which may be more suitable.

①②

③④

Service systems that were not shown on drawings

Example of a concrete patch. Significant aesthetic impact.

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2


The processes in the workshop was generally described.

1 2 3 A standard truss form was designed as it is known to have high compressive and tensile strength whilst using the minimal materials.

As we were provided with 42 X 19 refined plywood and 35 X 35 plywood planks, analysis was conducted to decide which type of plank is suitable for which component. We decided to use refined plywood for the central column and raw plywood for the base.

Components were cut according to the provided dimensions, utilizing a hacksaw. Hacksaws are ideal for cutting timber as its sharp teeth can abrade timber grains away in a linear motion. However, a limitation is that it could only be done in one direction so details (such as a spiral) would be difficult to achieve.

4

The timber components were joined using external bonding members such as nails and screws. However, screws were mainly used for precision and timely considerations.

5

Though incomplete as to what was planned initially (absence of cables and double base), the final structure was placed into a crush tester. Our structure withstood XXX N.

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WORKSHOP STUDIO REPORT: HOW DID IT DEFORM? Our truss shaped structure broke after merely 160N of force. The timber along the bottom, which underwent large tensile forces, cracked along the knot of the timber. This made me realize timber is weaker when grains are not refined. If that did not occur, what would happen next? Assuming that the base had refined, aligned grain, as it undergoes strong tensile strength, timber should begin to crack along the screws and nails, as timber grains cells are torn apart and weaker at these areas.

The causes of deformation and failure was analyzed, as well as the deformation process and how results may change if structure was altered.

Area of knot

Weaker where nails are

Nails cause crack

WHAT HAPPENED DURING CRUSHING PROCESS? As force is applied, the thin sheets of timber on top began to deflect by bowing inwards due to compressive force. While this was originally the expected faulty point, the knot surprisingly failed first. Once the base broke, resilient timber sheets elastically turned back to original form.

Fig.3

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The properties of timber used in our structure was analyzed

WORKSHOP STUDIO REPORT:

USING RAW/UNREFINED TIMBER Properties of raw timber in context of this activity:

USING REFINED TIMBER Properties of refined timber in context of this activity: advantages ● ●

advantages ●

disadvantages

Aligned grains ● Better re● sistance to tension and compression ● Smooth finishes

Expensive As it is more selective, less available Requires thought and consideration

● ● Load unevenly distributed along uneven grains.

disadvantages

Cheaper to ● produce and pur● chase Easily manufactures ● More available

Uneven grain structure with many knots Knots acts as weak area, prone to cracking Cannot withstand high levels of tension and compression.

Image extracted from www.aussiebushadventures.com.au

The material properties were the main cause for breakage and deformation of our structure, as the structure was broken around the timber knots.

Our structure utilized the refined timber planks as the central core as it needs to have high compressive force. More prone to crack and breakage along knots, shakes, pitch pockets, checks and wanes.

More bending resistance when there is high height to cross section thickness ratio.

RECOMMENDATION Fig.3 Ideally, refined timber should be used for both the central pillar and base. To withstand compressive force, a thicker plank of timber should also be utilized instead of the thin sheet that was used. High compressive resistance on top. Should use thicker planks.

High tensile resistance on base, should use flexible planks. (with refined grains)

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WORKSHOP STUDIO REPORT:

Nails joining both sides

NAILING DIRECTIONS

Nails or screws? Nails have a smooth linear surface, hammered into the timber whilst screws have hinges that grip onto the timber using an electrical screwdriver. Screws were used in our structure as ridges were thought to better grip to timber grains, and direction could be better controlled using a electrical screwdriver (as opposed to a hammer).

Nail went through whole plank, poking out. Less destruction to timber if only half through.

Screws drilled inside

Side or front/back? Ideally planned to secure truss to side so load could be easily and evenly diverted. However, is difficult to nail at an angle. RECOMMENDATIONS:: NAIL OR SCREWS FOR TIMBER? Timber is commonly seen to be joint using nails rather than screws. This is likely as nails is absent from ridges, it causes less destruction to the timber grains and hence less prone to a weak point.

Bottom up or side? Ideally bottom up, but nails was not long enough to go through Fig.3 of base. However, side width affects its center of mass and load

ACTUAL CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS OPPOSED TO MODEL MAKING MATERIALS? element Actual construction materials Model making materials

joints

Nails and screws: external element piercing through material

Usually adhesive or tape. Relies on contact bond. Pins Pins however howeveract actininaasimilarly similarlytotonails. nails.

beams

Timber: Timber: dense dense and and significant significant Foam, Foam, card card or orlightweight lightweightwooden woodensticks: sticks: difference between grain grain structure structure much easiereasier to cut,tomuch cut, much less dense. less dense.

Cutting tools

Hacksaw, Hacksaw,electrical electricalscrewdrivers, screwdrivers, Common tools include scissors scissors and and blade. blade. hammers hammers and andbench benchhooks hooksrereMuch easier to cut as whole but incapable incapable of of quired. Many force force and and safety safety concon- cutting details. details. Less Less safety safety requirements. requirements. siderations required.

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WORKSHOP STUDIO REPORT:

Comparison with other structures from other groups were identified and analyzed, investigating the advantages and limitations of each structure.

Cannot withstand shear force columns would rotate and break along nails.

This structure withstood 150turns. the structure failed along the nail, which is commonly the weaker spot as grains are destroyed.

2 3

However, it still underwent relatively high crushing resistance due to its thick core.

1 Timber block inserted merely to fill in space and save time.

Unfortunately, this group did not complete their structure and hence did not undergo a crushing test. However, assuming that the structure was tested, it is likely to: 1. Bottom beam undergoes tension, tearing apart. However, less likely to break as opposed to other direction. 2. Top beam would likely be the faulty cause as it cracks inwards whilst experiencing compression. 3. Short columns, especially angled ones would break in nailed areas or around knots of timber.

Originally, this structure has a hollow core. However, a plywood sheet was inserted (without a bond) in the center to increase strength. The sheet twisted during the crushing process. However, this did not prevent the structure from failing, as the structure, like ours, broke along the timber knots. While I predicted the top beam to deform first, it appears that the beam has high compressive strength. Using refined timber would increase its resistance to downward force. This structure, though strong in downward load, is unlikely to have high shear resistance.

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Long columns fail through buckling, like bending to sideways.

(Ching, 2008)

Back buckling is a horizontal beam behind columns to prevent columns from buckling.

Direction of the load.

(Physicsclassro om.com, 2014)

The aesthetic change when exposed to harsh environments like pollution and moisture. May age in line with aesthetics. (e.g. copper)

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

A cap placed in footings to prevent ants or termites to wear away the material of the footing, making it weak (specifically for timber structures)

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

A load applied parallel to the primary axis

(http:// www.engineeringdictionary.org ,2008)

A narrow strip of wood or steel placed over rood structural member to provide base for slate shingles or tiles.

(Dictionary.co m, 2014))

Horizontal element that carries vertical load using bending resistance.

(Ching, 2008)

*’I’ shaped – universal beam *’C’ shaped– channel beam Only used for Flooring, describing the key beam on the side. Only used for timber and steel.

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

structural members such as a beam or a pole to stiffen framework.

(TheFreeDictio nary.com

Cross bracing: stiffened by having an X across frames Sheet bracing: diagonal bracing Made of clay and water under heat and compression. Has a perpend (short) side and a bed joint side (long side). Hard, rigid and durable. However, low ductility and low porosity.

any rigid structural member projecting from a vertic al support,especially one in which the projection is great in relation to the depth, so that the upper part is in tension and the l ower part in compression.

(Dictionary.com, 2014)

Always associated with parapet roofs. The cap over the wall to divert water into box gutter.

(Dictionaryofconstr uction.com, 2014)

The subsystem of a timber frame structure. Used horizontally to support ceiling

(Ching, 2008)

The point where an object is balanced in uniform gravity field.

(Nave, 2000)

Cover or sheeting applied to provide desirable surface properties such as corrosion and weathering

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

Forces that flow in a straight line where sum of magnitudes act along the same line of action

(Ching, 2008)

A slender, upright support, typically cylindrical shaft, base and capital.vertical structural members designed to transfer axial compressive loads. axial loads can be classified as either the short or long

(Dictionary.com, 2014)

Combinates of 2 or more different materials to provide new characteristics, but still distinguishable (e.g. gravel, fiibreglass)

(Ching, 2008)

A strained state or condition resulting from forces acting in opposition to each other.

('Compression', 2014)

Creating designs through 2d or 3d modelling using computer softwares

(Techterms.com , 2014)

Made of cement, gravel & water by mixing and curing. Can be filled with grout and reinforced.

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

(Ching, 2008)

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Load that has sudden movement on a structure, with rapid changes in magnitude and point of application, such as a moving train across a bridge.

(Ching, 2008)

A system with a box gutter, flashing, plate and strut in a roof system for water proofing purposes at the bottom edges of a sloping roof.

Dictionaryofconstru ction.com, 2014)

Caused by leaching, when concrete absorbs salt and lime, creating white deposits.

(Ching, 2008)

Lines of action intersecting as a common point where vector sum is the same effect on body with vectors of different forces

(Ching, 2008)

The effective length between two points, where curvature changes from concave to convex where bending moment is zero.

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

The shell or the envelope of a building. This includes roof, walls, windows and doors.

(Lemieux & Totten, 2010)

Horizontal row of units. Could be stretcher course (most common), soldier course or header course

(Sovinski, 1999)

The barrier that separates the covered interior spaces from the surrounding environment.

(Lemieux & Totten, 2010)

An life cycle approach where the process from the production to disposal/reusing is considered.

(Ryding, 2011)

Equal action of opposing forces– an object or system at rest

(Ching, 2008)

The projection between the ceiling and the wall. Usually molded like a crown. For compositional purposes.

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

When bricks need to be separated because cannot have too much in one line

(Newton, 2014)

Short columns filed by this force. It is similar to shear force

(Newton,2 014)

Joints that maintain the angular relationship between joined elements. Has force and moment resistance.

(Ching, 2008)

The hydrating/drying process of concrete. Usually vibrated to remove air bubbles before curing.

(Newton,2 014)

Like capping, Always associated with parapet roofs. A flat to divert water into box gutter.

Dictionaryofconstru ction.com, 2014)

Corrugated roofing

(Newton,2 014)

Scraping concrete flat by hand during formwork process

(Newton, 2014)

Same as water proofing, to divert water away from foundation

(Newton,2014 )

Steel deck used for flooring, with rigid and bumpy surface. Usually poured over with concrete as sacrificial formwork.

(Ching, 2008)

A part of the foundation in which spreads and transmits the load from superstructure directly into the soil.

(Dictionar y.com, 2014) (Jones, 2014)

The construction detail of how two materials are bonded.

(Newton,2 014)

quantitative description of the interaction between two physical bodies, such as an object and its environment. Force is a vector, where gravity acts as an attractive force between bodies that possessed mass

A rounded vault forming roof or building structure with circular base

Reinforced concrete takes form of the frame/mold (e.g. timber)

(Ching, 2008)

Two layers of glass that set to have thermal and acoustic insulation

The substructure to support the superstructure and its loads

(Ching, 2008)

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The sub beams used for flooring. Usually spans across bearer.

(Ching, 2008)

The weak point across a timber. Needs to be on top of beam to withstand compression. Have weak resistance to tension.

(Ching, 2008)

The timber structure above windows

(Ching, 2008)

Moving or movable loads on a structure resulting from occupancy, collected substance or moving elements. Could act downwards or horizontally as a dynamic load

(Ching, 2008)

the forces to which a structure is subjected due to superposed weight or to wind pressure on the vertical surfaces .

(Merriamwebster.com, 2014)

A path that seismic forces pass through to the foundation of the structure and, ultimately, to the soil. Typically, the load travels from the diaphragm through connections to the vertical lateralforceresisting elements, and then proceeds to the foundation by way of additional connections.

(Techterms.co m, 2014)

A Structure where all elements that form it cannot be removed. A mass structure would collapse If an element was removed.

(Ching, 2008)

Arches that utilize compressive strenth of brick and stone to span openings by transforming verticle forces of a supported load into inclined components.

(Ching, 2008)

The system where services are provided to the building, such as lighting, electricity, water supply etc.

(Ching, 2008)

are not bonded to allow space for movement and expansion

A structure dominantly made by thin, flexible surfaces with steel cables.

(Ching, 2008)

*construction joints: for temporary/halted construction– prevents vertical differential mocement

Flexible arrangement of standardized units.

(Dictionary.com, 2014)

The force that makes an object/point rotate. Calculated by Distance (from pivot) X Force.

(Newton,2014)

A structure mainly composed of frames using steel, concrete or beams.

(Newton,20 14)

A general term to describe main steel (only) beams. Could be used for roofing, walls or flooring.

(Newton,20 14)

The mortar/concrete

(Newton,20 14)

Mini handrail used for safety reasons during construction

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

Box gutter

(Ching, 2008)

The timber beam above doors. Part of structural frame.

(Ching, 2008)

Sagging of ends of a beam or timber when it is only supported in the middle.

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

A dynamic system that combines one or more system in a structure

(Newton,20 14)

Acoustic insulation: sound proof (usually bulk)

(Ching, 2008)

Thermal insulation: usually bulk Bulk/board insulation: foam in middle with sheathing *isolation joints: Where slab and adjoining columns

*control joints: made on purpose lines for cracking Types of joints: Butt joint, a 45°metered and a shadow lined joint.

(Ching, 2008)

Describes how the cross sectional area of a structural member (specifically beams) distribute loads as the shape alternates

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Foundation that elevates structure above ground. *cased piles (case and filled in. case is kept)

(Newton,2 014)

*cast inplace (substance filled in case. Dry, remove case. They become uncased pile) *micropiles (very thin but deep piles in any angle) The pouring of concrete grade beam and floor slabtogether to form a building foundation.

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

A single material (e.g. alloy)

(Newton,2014)

A bonding agent made of cement and water, used commonly for bricks. May be laid out in raked, ironed, struck, weather struck and flush style.

(Ching, 2008)

Joints that enable movements. Includes expansion joints, control joints and isolation joints.

(Ching, 2008)

A building automation system that lowers thermal mass in walls, floors and furniture, enabling cool temperatures for the next day.

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

Rafter overhang: the part of roof that extends over side of wall.

The timber diagonal studs across structural frames for walls

(Ching, 2008)

Resisted opposite forces to applied forces in order to achieve equilibrium.

(Newton,2 014)

Lines of action that do not intersect at common point, where vector sum is single force that causes the same translation and rotation of body as the set of original forces. At times sum calculated by polygon method.

(Ching, 2008)

Retaining walls provide support for the superstructure above and enclose a basement below the grade. Retaining walls are expected to withstand vertical load from superstructure and earth’s pressure, enabling the superstructure to withstand wind and seismic forces.

Ching, 2008

Individual spread footings that is mainly used to support a point load from a column or pier.

(Ching, 2008)

Ching, 2008

Stumps but for brick. The support between the foundation and the flooring.

(Ching, 2008)

Joints that allow rotation and translation in parallel direction, but not translation in perpendicular direction.

system of piles, and pile caps, that transfersstructural loads to bearing soils or be drock.

(Dictionaryofcons truction.com, 2014)

Hip Roof:sloping ends and sides meeting at an inclined projecting angle

Ching, 2008

Joints that allow rotation but not translation.

(Ching, 2008)

A point where a bearing/structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation.

Termwiki.com, 2014)

When a structure is built curved upwards to expect it to flatten out/droop in time.

(Newton,2 014)

Production and assembly of materials or part of a structure in another location.

(Dictionaryofco nstruction.com, 2014)

Horizontal structural members part of the Roof structure that supports loads and transfers them to roof beams.

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

Rafter: sloping parallel beams used to support roof covering

Dictionaryofconstruction.com, 2014)

Gable roof:downward in two parts from a central ridge. Parapet roof: flat roofs. May be lower than walls. Concrete formwork with a mold that would be permanently bonded with the concrete, becoming part of the system (wall, floors)

(Newton,2 014)

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*stainless steel: covered in zinc, lightweight but exp

(Merriamwebster.com, 2014)

*galvanized steel– heavy body, less exp

Similar to a water proofing membrane, but reflective foil on the inside and water proofing on the outside. Only used for roofs.

Dictionaryofconstructi on.com, 2014)

Removing water from cells of timber until it reaches less than 15% so timber is stronger.

(Newton,2 014)

Force acting on a substance in a direction perpendicular t o the extension of the substance, such as air pressure on an airplane wing. Resistance to shear requires viscosity.

(Newton,2 014)

Timber used to close up side walls, floors or roofs before installation of finish materials on surfaces.

Igneous, sediment or metamorphic. Can be as gabion, monolithic, ashlar or rubble. Hard and extremely durable, but high energy to produce.

(Merriamwebster.com, 2014)

Continuous spread footings of foundation walls.

(Ching, 2008)

Jamb stud: the studs left and right of windows. From ceiling to ground.

(Ching, 2008)

Jack stud: the studs below windows to ground Like a pier but for timber or concrete. Supports flooring with foundation.

(Ching, 2008)

Dictionaryofconstructi on.com, 2014)

Similar to a column, a member under compression.

(Dictionaryofco nstruction.com, 2014)

The ridged separator between sliding doors

(Ching, 2008)

(abuildersengi neer, 2014)

A plaster board or metal at the bottom of doors to prevent damage from vacuum and brooms.

(Newton,2 014)

Horizontal element to carry vertical load

(Newton,2 014)

lower portion of the building, usually located below the ground level, which transmits the loads of the super-structure to the supporting soil. A foundation is therefore that part of the structure which is in direct contact with the ground to which the loads are transmitted. part of the structure which is above ground level .

(abuildersengi neer, 2014)

A structure composed by surfaces and planes

(Newton,2014 )

A strained state when forces are pulling away from the matter in opposition to each other

(Dictionaryofcon struction.com, 2014)

The ability to store heat in a particular material

(Engineeringdictionary.org, 2008)

A plastic that could be melted and remolded repeatedly again and again. E.g. PVC, acrylic

(Newton,2 014)

A plastic that could not be remolded once set.

(Newton,2 014)

A structure composed by solid elements without a frame or membrane

(Newton,2 014)

The distance of a beam between two supports in its end. Usually has space underneath its center. Has repeated elements

(Newton,2 014)

The distance of the beam itself. Filled with solid in the middle.

(Newton,2 014)

Lowest part of foundations. Spread for lateral loads.

(Ching, 2008)

Loads that are applied slowl to a structure until it reaches peak value without fluctuating rapidly in magnitude or position.

(Ching, 2008)

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Loop of reinforcing bars encircling the longitudinal steel in columns

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

LVL (laminated veneer lumber): thin sheets of timber. Used for walls and roof

(Newton,2 014), (Ching, 2008)

GLULAM– glued

A layer of impervious material to prevent water from entering building or interior.

(Dictionaryofcon struction.com, 2014)

A small hole in a wall or window member to allow accumulated water to drain. The water may be fromcondensation and/or surface penetration.

(Dictionaryofcon struction.com, 2014)

CLT (cross laminated timber): glued cross laminated grain together Plywood glue thin timber laminates into sheet. MDF (Medium density fiberboard): no used for structural systems, glued under pressure, even quality Chipboard/Strandboard: glued ships together, usually used for bracing and flooring. A structural component composed of a combination ofmembers, usually in a triangular arrangement, to form a rigid framework; often used to support a roof.

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

Strengthening existing foundations without removing the superstructure.

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

More like a long ‘I’. Mainly prevents rotational force.

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

More like a squared ‘I’. Dominantly prevents twisting

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

3D volumtristic arched member (like a cave)

(Ching, 2008)

Deep vertical element preventing sheer and overturning load.

(Newton,2 014)

rainwater collection and storage systems used tooffset potable water needs for a building and/or landscape. Usually has surface to collect precipitation (such as a roof).

(Dictionaryofc onstruction.co m, 2014)

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abuildersengineer,. (2014). Diagram on types of Retaining Walls. Retrieved from http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kA3d1vvIZf4/UOt2TE0B5sI/ AAAAAAAADRU/R9G4Wuy6VMM/s1600/13.gif

Jones, A. (2014). Physics - Overview and Resources. About.com Physics. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://Physics.about.com

Bond, A. (1910). Handy man's workshop and laboratory (1st ed.). New York: Munn & Co., Inc.

Lemieux, D., & Totten, P. (2010). Building Envelope Design Guide. Wbdg.org. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http:// www.wbdg.org/design/env_wall.php

certifiedslings,. (2014). Diagram of Wire Rope. Retrieved from http:// www.certifiedslings.com/wp-content/themes/certifiedslings2014/ images/stories/referenceguide/wire-rope-core.jpg

Merriam-webster.com,. (2014). Merriam-Webster Online. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://merriam-webster.com

Ching, F. (2008). Building construction illustrated (4th ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc. Compression. (2014). Oxford Dictionary. Oxford. Da Silva, A., & Kyriakides, S. (2007). Compressive response and failure of balsa wood. International Journal Of Solids And Structures, 44(25-26), 8685-8717. doi:10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2007.07.003 Dictionary.com,. (2014). Dictionary.com. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://Dictionary.com Dictionaryofconstruction.com,. (2014). Construction Dictionary by DictionaryOfConstruction.com. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http:// www.dictionaryofconstruction.com Engineering-dictionary.org,. (2008). Engineering Terms Definitions. Retrieved 5 October 2014, from http://www.engineering-dictionary.org

Exploratorium,. (2000). Experience the Exploratorium. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://www.exploratorium.edu James, D., & Kirkup, J. (2013). COMPARATIVE AIR FLOW ASSESSMENT OF WEEP HOLE VENTILATION INSERTS AND DRAINAGE ASSESSMENT.

Nave, R. (2000). Index. Hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu Newton, C. (2014, March 6). W01 m1 Introduction to Materials [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=s4CJ8o_lJbg&feature=youtu.be Newton, C. (2014, March 6). W02 c1 Construction Systems[Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=8zTarEeGXOo&feature=youtu.be Physicsclassroom.com,. (2014). The Physics Classroom. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://www.physicsclassroom.com Ryding, S. (2011). Life-Cycle Assessment. Ilo.org. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://www.ilo.org/oshenc/part-vii/environmental-policy/ item/746-life-cycle-assessment-cradle-to-grave Sovinski, R. (1999). Brick in the landscape (1st ed.). New York: John Wiley. Techterms.com,. (2014). The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http://www.techterms.com TheFreeDictionary.com,. (2014). Dictionary, Encyclopedia and Thesaurus The Free Dictionary. Retrieved 19 August 2014, from http:// www.thefreedictionary.com

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