Theory
of Structure is a subject taught at undergraduate level in this school of
Architecture. The main objective of the course is to enable the students to
take appropriate decisions regarding structures at architectural design stage.
In TVB of School of Habitat Studies, the emphasis is given on understanding
the physical behaviour of structural systems under several conditions of loading.
. Many of these classes are held in the structure lab, where demonstrations
of structural principles using models (made both by students and professionals)
helps in visualization and comprehension of deformation and stress patterns.
There are three kinds of teaching-learning aids in the lab:
Models
of systems like arch, truss, cable etc. and specific studies of system behaviour
under varying heights, span, material and cross-sections.
Demonstration models for general understanding e.g. tension/compression of members, bending of beam, buckling of beams and columns, torsion etc.
Simulators for understanding wind and earthquake loads and their effects e.g. static equivalent of wind loading is simulated for frame structures by applying horizontal force by means of a pulley load system to study behaviour of frames under varying local conditions and geometry of members. There are plans for installing a wind tunnel in the future.
A special attraction is the "museum corner", where the best models made by students every year are archived.
