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066-0411-00L 2 Credits MSC D-ARCH

Introduction to Structural Design

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Philippe Block, Dr. Lluis Enrique Monzo
Not suitable for students who have already completed Structural Design I, II and III.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:28

Abstract

The course presents the fundamentals of how structures function through analysis and discussion of the interplay between forces, structural form and materials.

Objective

At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to: 1. visualize the internal forces within two-dimensional structural elements. 2. understand the relationship between the form of a structure and the internal forces within it. 3. modify the design of a structure in order to improve it. 4. identify the most important structural typologies. 5. use graphic statics for the form-finding and analysis of structures. 6. carry out basic dimensioning of structural elements. 7. assess the structural behaviour of a building. 8. understand the structural and architectural possibilities of the most important building materials.

Content

The course consists of lectures and exercises sessions. Topics include: - Introduction to graphic statics - Basic dimensioning of structural elements - Cables and arches - Arch-cables structures - Trusses - Beams and plates - Frames - Bracing systems - Introduction to the main building materials

Resources

Lecture Notes

eQUILIBRIUMhttp://www.block.arch.ethz.ch/eq

Literature

"The art of structures, Introduction to the functioning of structures in architecture" (Aurelio Muttoni, EPFL Press, 2011, ISBN-13: 978-0415610292, ISBN-10: 041561029X) "Faustformel Tragwerksentwurf" (Philippe Block, Christoph Gengangel, Stefan Peters, DVA Deutsche Verlags-Anstalt 2013, ISBN: 978-3-421-03904-0) "Form and Forces: Designing Efficient, Expressive Structures" (Edward Allen, Waclaw Zalewski, October 2009, ISBN: 978-0-470-17465-4)

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
Calculator (not programmable and without internet access).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Introduction to Structural Design
No course on 22.10. (seminar week). Not suitable for students who have already completed Structural Design I, II and III. The lecturers will communicate the exact lesson times of ONLINE courses.
  • Thu 10:00-12:00 (ON LI NE)
2 h weekly

Offered In