STRUCTURALLY EFFICIENT DESIGN OF DWELLINGS TO CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES. (VOLUMES I AND II) (FERROCEMENT, SHELL, BUCKLING)
Abstract
The objective of this work is to develop a dwelling capable of helping to alleviate the problem of inadequate housing. This objective is accomplished by developing an optimum dwelling in which the needs of the inhabitants, conservation of energy, efficient use of construction materials, and reduction of costs are concurrently satisfied. Both design and construction of ferrocement components of the dwelling are discussed. Components considered are cylindrical wall panels, conical roof panels, and a cylindrical core. The structural design is accomplished in two main steps. First, preliminary designs are made based on deflection and strength requirements. These designs are obtained on the basis of linear stress analysis of the dwelling components using the finite element computer program SAP-IV and the energy finite difference computer program STAGS-C. The preliminary designs show that the deflection and strength limitations are not the governing factors in the design. Consequently, approximate buckling designs of the dwelling components are made which lead to components more than twice as thick as those needed to satisfy deflection and strength requirements. Next, a refined procedure for stability design of ferrocement shells is developed which takes advantage of state-of-the-art computerized shell buckling analysis. Utilizing this procedure, more elaborate designs of the dwelling components are developed using the STAGS-C code. These designs show that the earlier approximate buckling designs are too conservative and only slightly thicker components are required compared to those needed on the basis of deflection and strength limitations. The dwelling developed herein appears promising in terms of satisfying the stated objectives. Its thinness (10 mm for most components) and shape (singly-curved shells) point to significant savings in the material and construction energy consumption. Its construction materials (ferrocement and wood) work in favor of reducing the cost and energy required in the construction process as well as ensuring a good future availability. Its earth sheltering coupled with proper insulation will help in reducing the operating energy consumption.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Civil engineering
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