2. Types and Processes Dwellings according to their structural and material characteristics give better indication of distinctions that exist between shelter types than description by their form. Loads on a structure No matter how simple or sophisticated a building may be it is subject to the same physical laws . Understanding the general physical principles that affect the ‘structure’ of a building, and the means and methods of assembly of materials employed in its ‘construction’ helps us to appreciate the achievements of indigenous builders. Structural systems transmit the gravitation ‘loads’ to earth while creating and enclosing the volume that is needed to meet the function of the building.
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10. Wall: Wall is the earliest development of an enclosed shelter. Wall is simply a series of smaller units assembled in the vertical plane with the length and height determined by need. Walls define the physical space between the exterior and interior of a building. Walls may have openings for ventilation. Types and Processes
11. Post & Lintel: The column or post is a vertical linear element that carries the load of horizontal member or lintel. Trabeation or post and lintel construction is a method to support the dwelling enclosure. The filling in materials in this case are non load bearing, as the total load is transferred by lintel on to the posts. Types and Processes
12. Arch: Arch is a curved structure of wedge shaped blocks known as Voussoirs built to span an opening. Each stone or brick in the arch is prevented from falling by the next one.The center unit is known as key stone. Types: Semi circular, segmental, pointed, horse shoe.etc. Types and Processes
13. Dome: The circular rotation of an arch around a fixed center point becomes a dome with a circular plan. Domes may also have square plans with corners becoming triangular squinches. Domes may be semi circular, flat or conical. Domes usually are constructed of light weight materials , such as clay, brick. The thickness of a dome often decreases at the top to reduce its own weight. Types and Processes
14. Vault: The three dimensional projection of an arch becomes a vault. Vault creates a tunnel like space. Types: Barrel vault, ribbed vault etc. Types and Processes
15. Types and Processes Truss: A truss is a two dimensional plane system consisting of an assembly of individual members arranged in triangular units . The rigid framework is designed to span an opening . A series of trusses can support the roof over a dwelling unit. We often find wooden trusses used in vernacular architecture. Others: Framed structures follow similar methods of trusses, but the framing is not only in two dimensions, but in three dimensions. Shell forms and tensile structures are curved roofing structures.
