40 333 Structures and Consequences (Høst 2025)

The dimensions of a building structure provide an initial indication of whether the chosen building system is suitable or not. We will examine the proportions and dimensions of various structural systems and explore the limits of different combinations of structure and material. Furthermore, we will look at strategies and techniques for achieving, for example, longer spans, slimmer dimensions, optimized material usage etc. The choice of building system and material is, in most cases, of great significance for a project's economy, quality, and architectural expression. In addition, these choices have environmental consequences, impact flexibility in use and potential reuse. We will look into how these and other aspects can influence the choice of structure. A newly graduated architect can be responsible/liable for the safety and utility of the structure in smaller buildings. We will explore how architects can design the structure and determine its dimensions according to regulations.

• Knowledge:
  Be familiar with the most common structural systems used in Norway today, as well as their structural potential.
• Understand the key consequences of choosing one building material and structural system over another.
• Know the criteria that must be met for an architect to take responsibility for the structural design of a building, and the limitations of the information provided by Byggforsk.

Skills:

• Be able to make rough calculations of dimensions for the most common structural systems.
• Be able to calculate design loads and use tables and diagrams from Byggforsk to determine minimum dimensions for various structural elements.
• Be able to analyze, evaluate and compare different structural systems/materials based on a range of technical, environmental, and architectural consequences.

Genreal competence:

• Increased understanding of how to make decisions based on a wide range of criteria (this will be discussed in class).

This is mainly based on lectures, assignments and discussions.

The course is divided into three thematic parts:

1) Construction materials and systems with rough dimensioning

2) Consequences of choosing different construction materials and systems

3) Use of the Byggforsk Knowledge System for dimensioning (reliability class 1)

Compulsory attendeance requirements:
Assignments that are to be presented orally require physical attendance, as does the individual in-class assignment ("exam"). Attendance is also expected for guest lectures and discussions. Lectures intended to prepare students for the individual in-class assignment ("exam") are optional.

Compulsory work requirements:

Parts of the curriculum will be tested in an in-class exam-like assignment, which is mandatory and part of the overall assessment. This assignment must be completed individually, and all written aids are permitted. In addition, some of the course assignments are mandatory and part of the assessment. At least one of these must be presented orally and will be evaluated based on both content and delivery.

Form of assessment: Assessment folder

Grading scale: Pass/fail

Assessment criteria: Students are assessed based on one individual in-class assignment (exam) and two mandatory coursework assignments. At least one of the mandatory assignments are to be presented orally, and will be evaluated based on both content and delivery. To pass the course, all assignments must be completed and approved. Active participation in discussions will be considered positively in the assessment.