Building Construction 2 ARC 2513

Project 1: Understanding Forces in Skeletal Structure

In this project, we are required to build a skeletal structure and test out the weight capacity it can resist. In order to achieve the minimum weight set by the lecturers, me and my group member have done a series of experiments on how to set up the structure and its bracing. These structures are build up with the limited materials mention in the project brief which are maximum 100 popsicle sticks, toothpicks, thread, pins and a base in a5 size. There are few others limitation such as no glue can be used, and tower height should at least 30 cm.

Objective of this project are:
- To create an understanding of skeletal structure and its relevant structural components.
- To understand how a skeletal structure reacts under loading.
- To demonstrate a convincing understanding of how Skeletal Construction works.
- To be able to manipulate Skeletal Construction to solve an oblique design problem.

Some pictures of our model

Load Testing- 108 kg

Report of this project 

Bcon report final from Daniel Yap

Through this project, I am able to apply construction system in design. Besides that, I also understand which types of bracing suits to resists the vertical and lateral forces. This project has also help me in knowing the implication of construction in design. Furthermore, I am able to analyse the issue of strength, stiffness and stability of structures including modes of structural systems, forces, stress and strain and laws of static.

Project 2: Understanding Forces in Solid Structure and Surface Structure

In this project, we are required to produce a structure of either surface or solid types and a related report. The materials used to construct the structural model should be able to represent the real materials used in the construction of the building. We have selected a surface building named O2 arena in London, England and analyse this building thoroughly. In the end, we have come out with the model and report showed in below.

Progress and Outcome

Report 

O2 booklet from Daniel Yap

Through this project, I have learnt that the differences between surface and solid structure construction. It helps me further design which surface structure is more beneficial in organic design. Besides that, I also learnt that some construction details in the solid and surface construction so that it makes my further design constructible.