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1.1 Understanding Structures
Structures are anything with a definite size and shape, which serve a definite purpose or function. The Function of a structure is the job that it must perform. Typically, structures function to resist forces. A Force is a push or pull, or anything that causes a change in the motion of an object. This is measured in Newtons.
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Classifying Structures
All structures can be organized into 4 DESIGN categories: mass, frame, shell, or combination structures. You can learn more about these design categories by reading 266 - 268.
Solid (mass) Structures |
Frame Structures |
Shell Structures |
Combination Structures |
1.2 Describing Structures
Structures can be described in a variety of ways. We can describe materials by discussing 5 different aspects of them: function, design, aesthetics, safety, materials and joints/fasteners. During this section, we will discuss function and aesthetics.
Function
What is the structure actually supposed to accomplish? Remember, all structures must function to resist forces in some way
What is the structure actually supposed to accomplish? Remember, all structures must function to resist forces in some way
This question seems simple enough; however, there are many structures that perform multiple functions. There are also multiple structures for the SAME function.
Rube Goldberg
Rube Goldberg was a cartoonist famous for his drawing of highly complex machines that perform a particularly simple function in a very complicated way.
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Watch the Jimmy Kimmel video. Use the words in the "Word Connect" to describe the Rube Goldberg Machine!
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Design
Why is the structure designed in this way? Remember, all structures must be designed effectively to function well. Design focusses on the shape and size of a structure, as well as the materials it is made of.
Many different structures have been created throughout history that needed to be redesigned in order to become more effective.
Why is the structure designed in this way? Remember, all structures must be designed effectively to function well. Design focusses on the shape and size of a structure, as well as the materials it is made of.
Many different structures have been created throughout history that needed to be redesigned in order to become more effective.
Norman Breakey (1891-1965)
Breakey was a Canadian inventor who enhanced the design of the paintbrush. While he made no money for his invention, he has now been credited with the design. What was Breakey's design and how was it an improvement to the paintbrush? |
Michael Kelly (1800s)
Kelly is often credited for the enhancement of enclosures for livestock. His invention has been refined, but the basic design has stayed the same. What was Kelly's invention and what was his inspiration? |
Project: Golf Ball Bridge
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Your Task: Use class time to plan your bridge with your partners. Discuss any potential flaws and make a plan to solve problems on the fly
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Aesthetics This is the study of beauty in the arts and in nature. When talking about structures, we determine if they are aesthetically pleasing based on the inherent beauty in them.
Symmetry is one of the simplest ways to evaluate aesthetics. While it is not REQUIRED for an object to be aesthetically pleasing, it can be used as a starting point. Lines of symmetry include horizontal, vertical and diagonal. Look for lines of symmetry in the following images.
CULTURAL CONNECTIONS The First Nations people of the Treaty 7 region around Calgary considered aesthetics when designing their tipis (see page 275). The tipis often reflected the environment as well as the spiritual beliefs of the owner. Let's take some time to learn about the first nations people of Alberta and create a teepee design based on our personal beliefs and what we've learned.
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