Describing Structures Topic 2 Describing Structures
Structure and Function Structures have a function. Think of a bridge… it’s structure is designed to support STUFF. But it may also be designed to look pretty or to make a piece of road safer.
The most common functions: Transporting Containing Sheltering Supporting Lifting Fastening Separating Communicating Breaking Holding Etc…
But Function is not enough! Aesthetics….. Safety. Cost. These three factors often affect the design of a structure.
Can you think of a structure that is designed differently so that it is safer? Less expensive? Prettier?
Materials! Structures need to be made out of something. Some types of materials are composite materials, layered materials, and Woven materials.
Choosing materials What might affect our choice of materials then we are designing something? Cost Appearance Environmental impact Energy efficiency
Putting it all together Now that we have chosen our materials we need to put it all together! How can we attach all of our materials together?
Note: Joints can be mobile or rigid!
Fasteners Interlocking shapes Ties Adhesives Melting
Fasteners
Interlocking shapes
ties
Adhesives
Melting