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Architecture (ALE)

Structural Design

"Future Architect! Standing strong - understanding how buildings resist loads and forces. Structural knowledge is essential for safe and efficient design!"

ALE Challenge

Structural Design - the backbone of architecture!

1. Types of Loads

Dead Load (DL)

Permanent, self-weight

  • Concrete: 24 kN/m3
  • Steel: 77 kN/m3
  • Masonry: 19-22 kN/m3

Live Load (LL)

Variable, occupancy

  • Residential: 1.9 kPa
  • Office: 2.4 kPa
  • Assembly: 4.8 kPa

Wind Load

Lateral force from wind

Seismic Load

Earthquake forces - critical in PH!

2. Stress and Strain

Types of Stress

  • Compression: Pushing force
  • Tension: Pulling force
  • Shear: Sliding force
  • Bending: Combined C and T

Basic Formula

Stress = Force / Area

Strain = Deformation / Length

3. Structural Systems

Frame Systems

  • Rigid Frame: Moment-resisting connections
  • Braced Frame: Diagonal bracing
  • Shear Wall: RC walls resist lateral loads

Materials

  • Reinforced Concrete: Versatile, fire-resistant
  • Structural Steel: High strength, fast erection
  • Timber: Sustainable, good for low-rise

ALE Pro Tips - Structural Design

  • - Understand load paths from roof to foundation
  • - Column grid spacing affects flexibility
  • - Coordinate structure with architecture
  • - Consider constructability early

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