ARC 361 - STRUCTURES I: STATICS & STEEL
Illinois Avenue Pedestrian Overpass - This project involved redesigning a pedestrian overpass for the Southern Illinois University campus. The old overpass was out dated and in need of renovation. Not only did I have to consider the visual aspects, but I also had to consider the structural design as well. This project allowed me to utilize many of the principles learned throughout the semester including load analysis, acting stresses, and resisting stresses. This overpass that I designed, used two large funicular steel arches that were inclined outward in a parabolic shape. The cables that supported the decking were connected to the underside of the arches and to steel bracing underneath the concrete decking.
Structures I, was a challenging course that provided a basic understanding of force systems, and the graphical, analytical, and arithmetic resolution of unknowns in the design of structural frames. This course provided me with a basic understanding of the principles of statics, elasticity, and strength of materials for applications in the design of structural components. Throughout the semester, I developed an understanding of the principles of structural behavior in withstanding gravity and lateral forces and the evolution, range, and appropriate application of various structural systems. In addition, I gained an appreciation for the aesthetic, economic and functional characteristics of structural steel framework and its influences upon architectural design.
ARC 362 - STRUCTURES II: WOOD & CONCRETE
In this two-student project, using no more than one 40# bag of regular “Quickrete” (+/- 3000 psi), we had to construct a cast concrete rigid frame “bent” structural element with a cantilever and clear span. The Live Loads included two solid concrete rectangular units and a concrete cylinder. To mimic deformed steel bar tension components, we used 150# tensile strength nylon twine. Our test structure failed. The first problem we noticed was the fractures and cracks in our beam. These cracks were the likely result of us moving the structure before it finished curing. In the real world this problem could be associated with improper set-up and curing practices. Another identifiable problem with our system was that we added too much water. Too much water inadvertently made the concrete loose some of its strength. Despite these few problems, we were very confident in our design. We learned a lot from the failure of the first beam and final structure was structurally successful. Not only did it hold the required weight, but it held up even when additional weight was added.
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New Addition