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052-0665-00L 3 Credits BSC D-ARCH

Structural Design I

Tragwerksentwurf I

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Philippe Block, Dr. Lluis Enrique Monzo
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:21

Abstract

The course Structural Design I introduces the fundamental principles of how structures work. It focuses particularly on the relationship between the form of a structure and the forces acting within it, using graphic statics as a method of analysis.

Objective

At the end of the course Structural Design I, you will be able to: 1. understand how main structural typologies function and their role in carrying loads. 2. understand the relationship between the form of a structure and the internal forces within it. 3. apply graphic statics to analyze and find equilibrium forms for structures. 4. perform basic dimensioning of structural elements.

Content

- Fundamentals and equilibrium - Introduction to graphic statics - Dimensioning of structural elements - Cables - Arches - Arch-cables structures - Trusses - Beams - Frames - Plates - Buckling of compression elements

Resources

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)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
Taschenrechner (nicht programmierbar, kein Internetzugang).Calculator (not programmable, no internet access).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Tragwerksentwurf I
Vorlesung Donnerstag 14-16 im HCI G3 mit Videoübertragung ins HCI J3.
No time listed 5 h weekly

Offered In