1. Classifying Structural Forms
Section 1.1
Classifying Structural Forms

2. How do you define a structure?
Any object that provides support
Can be made up of one or more parts, large, small.
Can be man made or found in nature

3. There are 3 different categories of structures based on its shape or form.
Solid
Shell
Frame

4. Solid Structure
Is formed from one solid piece or a combination of solid pieces of a strong material
This structure has little or no open space inside of it and relies on its own mass to resist forces
Are usually stronger than the frame or shell structures but also extremely heavy

6. Frame Structure
Made up of a rigid arrangements of parts all fastened together
No individual component of the frame is as strong as the frame as a whole
Can be arranged 2-dimensional or 3-Dimensional
Are lighter than a solid structure because there is less material used

8. Shell Structure
Has a solid outer surface, which may be rounded or flat with a hollow interior
Rounded surfaces are usually stronger than flat shaped, because a curved area distributed the load more evenly
This structure is lighter than a solid structure
Are usually stronger than a frame structure and more commonly used for protection

10. The Function of Structures

11. The function is the use or purpose of a structure, what something is meant to do
Example: the function of a thermo cup is to keep your drink cool on a hot day, or your drink hot on a cold day

12. Multiple Functions
Many structures are designed to serve more than one function.
Examples
Airplane  Its function is to transport and protection for the people
A car  is also made to transport you, or things, and keep you safe!

13. What would the function be of the Muttart Conservatory?
Keep plants and species alive
Give the plants and animals an environment that allows them to grow all year round
Provides protection

14. Function and Effective Design
All inventions that have been successful all have focused on its function
To get ideas for structures that will meet a certain function, Designers, architects and inventors get ideas from the natural world

15. Designing the Perfect Desk
Page 271

17. Common Function, Different Design
Some structures look very different from one another in their design, but have the same function
Lets look at the structure roofs
Roofs have the same function, their purpose is to protect what is inside, but they can look very different, that means they have different designs.