fall 2005
ARC 385M/435K:
Construction III
Course Description
This course serves as an introduction in analyzing the behavior of basic construction systems largely through quantitative methods of conventional structural analyses and design with particular emphasis on lateral stability and combined load resistance in three dimensions.
Specifically, the structural mechanics and analyses aspects of this course will cover arches, frames, shear walls, multistory structures, suspension systems, thin shells, space frames, and fundamental connections of common systems. Additionally, while this course will not stress the mechanics of materials, the building systems discussed will be evaluated within the broad behavioral contexts of steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, and wood frame/timber structures.
Therefore, a primary objective of the course is to provide a designer- using the aforementioned methods and analyses, along with rules of thumb and present day conventions- with the ability for reasonable preliminary sizing and assessment of a total system and to assist in determining it's appropriateness and applicability to a design solution at hand.
In addition, the course will examine some basic detailing issues with regard to function, economics, construction sequencing, constructibility, and aesthetics.
Format
- Lectures will cover the significant material introduced in the required reading assignments.
- Homework assignments will be issued each week and the lab sessions will review example problems similar in nature to those assignments. Late homework assignments will be reviewed but not credited.
- In addition to the weekly assignments, constructed projects will constitute the fundamental course work.
- Homework and Projects will be accomplished in groups of 3 or less (may be individual). Any individual not performing a commensurate share of the work may be eliminated from the group but is still responsible to satisfy all homework/projects requirements.
- Quizzes may be given without notice to cover reading assignments to be completed prior to the presentation of the material in lecture.
- Exams will be closed book and may exact any information from all lectures, labs, and reading assignments within a given period.
Attendance
Attendance is mandatory in all lectures and labs. At the instructor's discretion, any student with more than 2 absences may be dropped from the class or the student's final grade will be adjusted letter grade less for each additional absence.
Texts
Building Structures, James Ambrose, Reserved Texts: Structures, Schodek, Fundamentals of Building Construction, Allen, The Architect's Studio Companion, Allen, Why Building's Fall Down, Salvadori, Building Construction Illustrated, Ching, Construction: Principles, Materials & Methods, Olin, Structures, Gordon
Grading
- Homework/Quizzes 10%
- Exams 40%
- Final Exam 25%
- Projects 25%
NO INCOMPLETES WILL BE ALLOWED
Any student with a documented disability (physical or cognitive) who requires academic accommodations should contact the Services for Students with Disabilities area of the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259 as soon as possible to request an official letter outlining authorized accommodations.