Frame
Paulina Pytka Student No: 637869
Our Model Step 1. A cube was assembled
Step 2. Another cube was added to the structure
Step 3. A framed structure resulted
Step 4. Bending of the tower indicated the weakest joints
Step 5. The weakest, middle section was reinforced with diagonal components
Step 6. The stability was improved through the use of triangles though a curve in the form remained
The failure of this model lies in the lack of additional bracing as the height of the tower increases. In step one, the figure did not show as much instability as it did later in the construction process. By step 4, it was necessary to choose between diagonal bracing or a rigid core as discussed by Ching (2008).
Our Model In order for the tower in step 3 to be considered a tube structure, and improve the model’s load bearing ability, the columns should be more closely spaced.
More rigid connections would have also been beneficial. i.e. Using superglue as opposed to tape. Depending on the way in which the tape is wrapped, the sticks can flex in different directions, whereas the glue holds all sticks involved in a joint in one position.
tape Â
glue Â
Our Model As shown in step 5, bracing only the middle section was the result of time constraints. The lower level should also be braced as this is where the greatest lateral force resistance is needed (Ching, 2008).
Little consideration was given to lateral force resistance during the construction of this model.
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A lattice truss tube may have improved lateral force resistance but collapsed under a vertical load which would cause the structure to act like a spring.
A trussed tube is essentially what this model aspired towards. The success of this form depends on the spacing of the columns for effective force distribution across the beams, through the columns and to the ground.
Other Models
The triangular base of this model proves to be more stable than one with a square base and can hold some degree of a load without deforming.
This teepee inspired model depicts the balance that can be achieved through tapering. This form could be improved by modeling it against a pyramid, and linking the columns at the base with a triangle
Triangles are the strongest type of shape because they are regular polygons and once all of their sides are joined, their interior angles cannot be changed.
Once the edges meet at the vertices, they can no longer move. Â
Other Models Although this model had a triangular form, it is not composed of triangles. It’s base ‘y’ frame has four joints which are all capable of flexing in various directions. The ‘y’ layers approximate the rigid core concept discussed by Ching (2008), however, they could be completed by an additional column running vertically through each intersection to better support a load.
References Ching, F 2008, Building Construction Illustrated, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Canada. Rogerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Connection 2011, N/A, N/A, viewed 12 August 2013, <http://www.rogersconnection.com/ triangles/index.html>.