Materials & Joints Designing Structures
Things to consider when designing a structure Function 2. Aesthetics (how it looks) 3. Safety 4. Cost Efficiency 5. Materials
Materials
3 Types of Materials Composite Layered Woven or Knit
Composite Materials Made from two or more kinds of material 2 types of forces act on a composite material tension compression Ex: bricks, concrete
Layered Materials Layers of different materials are pressed and glued together Combines properties of different materials Layers are called laminations Ex: windshield, drywall, winter jacket
Woven or Knit Materials Spinning, twisting, looping, or knotting fibers together gives materials strength Ex: steel cables, rope
Choosing Materials Weigh the advantages vs. disadvantages of various materials Factors to consider: Costs (is cheaper always better?) Appearance Environmental Impact Energy Efficiency
Joints
2 Types Mobile Rigid
Mobile Joints Joints that allow movement
Rigid Joints Rigid joints do not allow movement Several Types Fasteners Inter-locking Shapes Ties Glue Melting
Fasteners Rigid joints do not allow movement Lack of movement can be a strength OR a weakness (depending on function) Holes made in structure actually weaken structure Ex: nails, bolts, screws, rivets
Inter-locking Shapes Fits together because of shape Ex: lego, dovetail joint, dental fillings
Ties Fasten things together Ex: thread, string, rope
Adhesives Sticky substances hold things together Ex: hot glue, drying glue, epoxy resin
Melting Pieces of metal or plastic can be melted together Ex: welding, soldering, brazing
Choosing Joints Weigh the advantages vs. disadvantages of various joints Factors to consider: Function Costs