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Vicki May
In this introductory course, you’ll learn some engineering principles that can be applied to structural systems everywhere: in nature, in furniture, in mechanical and aerospace systems, and in any solid object that resists a load.
Read more
In this introductory course, you’ll learn some engineering principles that can be applied to structural systems everywhere: in nature, in furniture, in mechanical and aerospace systems, and in any solid object that resists a load.
Read more
In this introductory course, you’ll learn some engineering principles that can be applied to structural systems everywhere: in nature, in furniture, in mechanical and aerospace systems, and in any solid object that resists a load.
Together we’ll explore how structures work, why they were designed the way they were designed, how they support loads, and where forces flow through them.
More specifically we’ll:
- Learn about funicular forms and how ropes and cables resist tension.
- Discuss how columns, arches, and anti-funicular forms resist compression.
- Discover how trusses, beams and walls resist loads. • Sketch the flow of forces through structures.
- Compare and contrast different structural forms and systems to answer a range of questions such as: Why might an engineer choose a beam over a truss? How do the dimensions of a structure affect its response? How do engineers choose forms and systems to create structures that are both elegant and functional?
Join us in exploring the engineering of structures around us.
The main course image, Kurilpa Bridge credited to: Alastair Smith, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- How and why the world's structures (including structures in the natural and biological world) were designed and constructed the way they were
- To conceptually design and build prototypes of structures
- That engineering goes beyond math and science and involves much creativity and innovation
- To identify and compare structural elements, forms, and systems
- To describe the loads expected on a structure and the resulting flow of forces through the structure
- How and why the world's structures (including structures in the natural and biological world) were designed and constructed the way they were
- To conceptually design and build prototypes of structures
- That engineering goes beyond math and science and involves much creativity and innovation
- To identify and compare structural elements, forms, and systems
- To describe the loads expected on a structure and the resulting flow of forces through the structure
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces engineering concepts for structural systems found in everyday objects, nature, and various industries
Explores structures in the natural world, including biological systems
Provides hands-on experience through prototyping and conceptual design exercises
Highlights the importance of creativity and innovation in engineering
Emphasizes the understanding of load flow and force distribution in structures
Requires prior knowledge of engineering principles and concepts
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Reviews summary
Structural design insights
Learners say this course offers insights into structural design through real-world examples, making it accessible even to beginners. Reviews highlight the sustainability focus, making it a valuable introduction to the field.
Emphasis on Sustainability
"highlights the importance of sustainability in engineering"
Suitable for Beginners
"Just perfect for those with no prior knowledge"
Concepts and Examples
"complex structural engineering concepts while showcasing remarkable real-world examples"
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Engineering of Structures Around Us with these
activities:
Read 'Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down' by J. E. Gordon
Show steps
Gain insights into the fascinating world of structural engineering and its practical applications.
View
Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down
on Amazon
Show steps
Review Funicular Forms
Show steps
Review the basic concepts of funicular forms to strengthen your understanding of tension-resisting structures.
Browse courses on
Funicular Forms
Show steps
-
Define funicular forms and their applications.
-
Identify the role of ropes and cables in funicular forms.
-
Analyze real-world examples of funicular structures.
Discuss Structural Design Principles with Classmates
Show steps
Engage with fellow learners to exchange perspectives and deepen your understanding of structural design principles.
Show steps
-
Join or initiate a study group with classmates.
-
Facilitate discussions on different structural design concepts and case studies.
-
Collaborate on problem-solving and share insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Force Flow Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of force flow through structures by completing various practice exercises.
Show steps
-
Analyze simple structures and sketch the flow of forces through them.
-
Identify the forces acting on different structural elements.
-
Practice calculating force magnitudes and directions in various structural configurations.
Design and Build a Truss Bridge
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of load resistance by designing and building a prototype of a truss bridge.
Show steps
-
Plan the design of your truss bridge, including dimensions and materials.
-
Construct the truss bridge prototype using the chosen materials.
-
Test the load capacity and stability of your truss bridge.
-
Analyze the results of your test and make necessary modifications or improvements.
Create a Visual Model of a Structural System
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of structural systems by creating a visual model.
Show steps
-
Choose a structural system to represent.
-
Use software or hands-on materials to create a visual model.
-
Analyze and present the structural behavior based on the model.
Explore Stress and Strain in Structural Systems
Show steps
Expand your comprehension of stress and strain by engaging with guided tutorials on these concepts.
Show steps
-
Follow online tutorials on stress and strain in structural engineering.
-
Study the behavior of materials under different loading conditions.
-
Analyze real-life examples of structural failure due to stress and strain.
Participate in a Structural Design Competition
Show steps
Test your design skills and push the limits of structural engineering by participating in a design competition.
Show steps
-
Research and select a structural design competition that aligns with your interests.
-
Develop an innovative and feasible structural design proposal.
-
Prepare and present your design concept to a panel of industry experts.
Read 'Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down' by J. E. Gordon
Show steps
Gain insights into the fascinating world of structural engineering and its practical applications.
View
Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
Review Funicular Forms
Show steps
Review the basic concepts of funicular forms to strengthen your understanding of tension-resisting structures.
Browse courses on
Funicular Forms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define funicular forms and their applications.
- Identify the role of ropes and cables in funicular forms.
- Analyze real-world examples of funicular structures.
Discuss Structural Design Principles with Classmates
Show steps
Engage with fellow learners to exchange perspectives and deepen your understanding of structural design principles.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or initiate a study group with classmates.
- Facilitate discussions on different structural design concepts and case studies.
- Collaborate on problem-solving and share insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Force Flow Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of force flow through structures by completing various practice exercises.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Analyze simple structures and sketch the flow of forces through them.
- Identify the forces acting on different structural elements.
- Practice calculating force magnitudes and directions in various structural configurations.
Design and Build a Truss Bridge
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of load resistance by designing and building a prototype of a truss bridge.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Plan the design of your truss bridge, including dimensions and materials.
- Construct the truss bridge prototype using the chosen materials.
- Test the load capacity and stability of your truss bridge.
- Analyze the results of your test and make necessary modifications or improvements.
Create a Visual Model of a Structural System
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of structural systems by creating a visual model.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a structural system to represent.
- Use software or hands-on materials to create a visual model.
- Analyze and present the structural behavior based on the model.
Explore Stress and Strain in Structural Systems
Show steps
Expand your comprehension of stress and strain by engaging with guided tutorials on these concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Follow online tutorials on stress and strain in structural engineering.
- Study the behavior of materials under different loading conditions.
- Analyze real-life examples of structural failure due to stress and strain.
Participate in a Structural Design Competition
Show steps
Test your design skills and push the limits of structural engineering by participating in a design competition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and select a structural design competition that aligns with your interests.
- Develop an innovative and feasible structural design proposal.
- Prepare and present your design concept to a panel of industry experts.
Career center
Learners who complete The Engineering of Structures Around Us will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineers specialize in the design and analysis of structures, ensuring that they are safe and able to withstand various loads and forces. This course would be highly beneficial for Structural Engineers who want to expand their knowledge of structural systems and gain a better understanding of how structures resist loads and transfer forces.
Forensic Engineer
Forensic Engineer
Forensic Engineers investigate the causes of structural failures and other engineering-related accidents. This course would be valuable for Forensic Engineers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the structural principles that govern the design and construction of structures, as well as the principles of structural failure analysis.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain the infrastructure of our modern world, from roads and bridges to buildings and water systems. This course on the Engineering of Structures Around Us would be particularly helpful for Civil Engineers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the principles that govern the design of structures, from simple beams and columns to complex trusses and arches.
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical Engineers design and build structures on or in the ground. This course would be beneficial for Geotechnical Engineers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the structural principles that govern the design of foundations, retaining walls, and other geotechnical structures.
Architect
Architect
Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. This course would be valuable for Architects who want to develop a stronger understanding of the structural principles that underpin their designs. By learning about the behavior of different structural elements and systems, Architects can make more informed decisions about the structural design of their buildings.
Construction Manager
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. This course would be beneficial for Construction Managers who want to develop a stronger understanding of the structural principles that govern the construction process, such as the sequencing of construction activities and the management of structural safety.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers design and build aircraft and spacecraft. This course would be relevant for Aerospace Engineers who want to develop a stronger understanding of the structural principles that govern the design of aircraft and spacecraft, such as the design of wings and fuselages.
Naval Architect
Naval Architect
Naval Architects design and build ships and other marine structures. This course would be relevant for Naval Architects who want to develop a stronger understanding of the structural principles that apply to ships and other marine structures, such as the design of hulls and superstructures.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and build machines and other mechanical systems. This course would be helpful for Mechanical Engineers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that apply to mechanical systems, such as the design of bridges for vehicles or the design of aircraft wings.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists study the properties and behavior of materials. This course would be helpful for Materials Scientists who want to develop a better understanding of the structural properties of different materials, such as the strength and stiffness of metals, ceramics, and composites.
Product Designer
Product Designer
Product Designers design and develop products of all kinds, from consumer electronics to furniture to medical devices. This course would be helpful for Product Designers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that govern the design of products, such as the design of load-bearing components or the design of ergonomic products.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science at the primary or secondary school level. This course would be useful for Science Teachers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that govern the design and construction of structures, so that they can more effectively teach their students about these principles.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science Writers write about scientific topics for a general audience. This course would be helpful for Science Writers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that govern the design and construction of structures, so that they can more effectively communicate technical information about structures to a non-technical audience.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design and build medical devices and systems. This course would be useful for Biomedical Engineers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that apply to medical devices, such as the design of prosthetics or surgical implants.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create written content that explains technical information, such as user manuals, technical reports, and scientific articles. This course would be helpful for Technical Writers who want to develop a better understanding of the structural principles that govern the design and construction of structures, so that they can more effectively communicate technical information about structures to a non-technical audience.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/lhhhp1/the
Reading list
We've selected 40 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Engineering of Structures Around Us.
Save
Provides a conceptual understanding of how engineering structures, natural and mechanical, resist and transfer forces and loads. This book will provide background and a deeper understanding of the engineering fundamentals of structures that will supplement the course.
Save
Provides a historical overview of structures. It covers the development of structures from ancient times to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of structures.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the theory of structures. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deep understanding of the subject.
This handbook comprehensive reference for structural engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, including structural analysis, design, and construction. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about structural engineering.
Provides an artistic perspective on structures. It covers the aesthetics of structures and the relationship between form and function. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and construction of structures.
Provides a comprehensive overview of masonry structures. It covers the design and construction of masonry structures, including walls, arches, and vaults. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and construction of masonry structures.
Save
Comprehensive textbook on reinforced concrete. It covers the mechanics and design of reinforced concrete structures, including beams, slabs, columns, and footings. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and construction of reinforced concrete structures.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of structural analysis. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
Designed to help students understand the fundamentals of structural analysis and design, this book covers a wide range of topics related to the subject. It is valuable as a reference and background source for more advanced topics.
Provides a basic understanding of structural analysis, focusing on simpler structures and a more qualitative treatment of the subject. It would be a useful reference for someone who is seeking more depth and breadth in the course's focus on the flow of forces in structures.
Companion to the textbook on statics by the same author. It covers the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies and useful reference for someone who wants to improve their understanding of the basic principles of dynamics.
Classic textbook on statics. It covers the fundamental principles of statics and provides numerous examples and practice problems. It useful reference for someone who wants to improve their understanding of the basic principles of statics.
Provides a more in-depth look at the statics and mechanics of materials, which are essential for understanding the behavior of structures.
Presents a unified approach to the analysis of structures, covering the behaviour of structures and the principles of structural mechanics. It useful reference for someone seeking a deeper understanding of how structural analysis is used to predict the behaviour of real-world structures.
Presents a comprehensive overview of statics and mechanics of materials. It provides a thorough and detailed explanation of the fundamental principles and concepts of statics, as well as a comprehensive treatment of mechanics of materials.
Offers a clear and thorough introduction to the principles of statics, which would provide readers with a strong foundation for this course.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of construction materials, which could enhance the reader's understanding of the materials used in structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to structural analysis, which is essential for designing and analyzing structures.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the design of concrete structures. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the design of bridges. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the design of structures to resist wind loads. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the design of structures to resist seismic loads. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the design of structures to resist fire. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of the management of construction projects. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
Presents the fundamentals of mechanics and strength of materials. It may be a useful reference for someone who wants to understand the basic principles of structural mechanics.
This textbook commonly used at the undergraduate level that is useful for readers who want to learn the analysis of structures and how they behave under different loads.
For readers interested in a more advanced treatment of mechanics of materials, this book offers in-depth coverage of the subject.
Could serve as a valuable reference for readers who want to explore the topic of dynamics beyond this course.
Is useful for learners interested in learning more about reinforced concrete structures.
Provides an introduction to matrix analysis of structures, which powerful tool for analyzing complex structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the design of steel structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the design of concrete structures.
Provides a unique perspective on the art of structural design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the mechanics of materials, which is essential for understanding the behavior of structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to engineering mechanics, which is essential for understanding the behavior of structures.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the theory of structures, which is essential for understanding the behavior of structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to earthquake engineering, which is essential for understanding the behavior of structures under earthquake loads.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to structural dynamics, which is essential for understanding the behavior of structures under dynamic loads.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the computational structural mechanics, which is essential for understanding the behavior of complex structures.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the finite element analysis of structures, which is essential for understanding the behavior of complex structures.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/lhhhp1/the
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Effort
3 to 6 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Dartmouth College
Instructor
Vicki May
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Introduces engineering concepts for structural systems found in everyday objects, nature, and various industries
Explores structures in the natural world, including biological systems
Provides hands-on experience through prototyping and conceptual design exercises
Highlights the importance of creativity and innovation in engineering
Emphasizes the understanding of load flow and force distribution in structures
Requires prior knowledge of engineering principles and concepts
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