2.7. Structural Design

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is structural design concerned with?

   Hint

   Think about what structural engineers do.

2. 2.

   What materials can structural engineers choose?

   Hint

   Consider the common building materials.

3. 3.

   What is a primary purpose of structural design?

   • To aesthetic value
   • To ensure safety and stability
   • To increase cost

   Hint

   Think about what happens if a structure fails.

4. 4.

   True or False: The iterative design process involves making a design only once.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how engineers refine their designs.

5. 5.

   Design a small bridge using both wooden and steel components. Determine load capacities and discuss the iterative changes made throughout your design process.

   Hint

   Draw a basic structure and think about what loads will act on it.

6. 6.

   Analyze an existing building structure that has cracks in its walls. Identify the potential causes and suggest modifications based on the principles of structural design.

   Hint

   What loads might exceed the building's capacity?