1. Aim and learning outcomes
The aim of the assignment is to assess students’ ability to effectively and correctly apply computer aided analysis and FEA to design and analyse structures.
Learning outcomes for the assessment are as follows:
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how structures respond to loading actions in terms of deformation and internal stresses under serviceability loads and up to failure
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the methods to conduct elastic analysis of framed structures choosing appropriate models
• Be able to apply concepts and theories of structural analysis to design and verify structures using concept design, approximate analysis and a computer code
• Develop competence in the design of structures and be able to discuss the design of a structure in a technical report
• Develop competence in the use of computer aided design and analysis.
2. The problem:
A preliminary design and analysis is required for a building in the north-east area of Hyde Park, London, which will host a space for exhibition, a café and a recreation area for children.
The following design constraints and objectives are given.
• The maximum area which can be used is a 50 x 50 m2 square located as shown in Figure 1.
• The maximum height of the building is 11 m above ground level.
• The maximum number of floors which the building can have is 2.
• The building should have three indoor areas, each 250 m2 in area for: (i) exhibition space (ii) a café and (iii) a children’s recreation area.
• The budget is reasonably high but not infinite.
• A reasonable strength-to-weight ratio should be considered.
• Regardless of the structure to be designed, you should assume that a very stiff and sufficiently strong reinforced-concrete raft foundation is used with its top surface 1 meter below ground level. The raft foundation should neither be calculated nor included in the analysis apart from assuming that it’s bending and membrane stiffness values are infinite and any settlement in the ground can be ignored.
• It can be assumed that the ground level is flat after the works are completed.