🏗️ Advanced Structural Design

🏗️ Advanced Structural Design

Course Code: 3020-ARC
Title: Advanced Structural Design – Analysis and Simulation of Complex Architectural Structures

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📘 Course Introduction

This advanced-level course provides a comprehensive understanding of modern structural design techniques for complex architectural forms. It integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing professionals to tackle real-world challenges using cutting-edge analysis tools and sustainable practices.

📘 Course Description

This advanced course explores the principles and practices of designing complex structural systems in modern architecture. It covers advanced load analysis (including wind, seismic, and dynamic forces), high-performance materials, and structural simulation using state-of-the-art tools. Engineers, architects, and advanced students will engage in real-world scenarios that bridge theory with practical design, with a strong focus on safety, innovation, and sustainability.

Participants will utilize software like SAP2000, ANSYS, and ETABS to simulate, analyze, and verify structural performance, culminating in a capstone project where learners develop a fully engineered solution for a sophisticated building structure.

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📚 Detailed Course Outlines

Module 1: Introduction to Advanced Structural Design

• Overview of traditional vs. advanced structural approaches

• Key challenges in complex architectural structures

• Role of structural engineers in multidisciplinary teams

Module 2: Structural Load Analysis

• Load types: dead, live, wind, seismic, thermal, snow

• Dynamic and transient loading

• Load combinations and factors of safety

• National and international codes: ACI, Eurocode, ASCE

Module 3: Design with High-Performance Materials

• Properties and applications of:

  • High-strength concrete (HSC)

  • Fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC)

  • High-tensile steel (HTS)

• Behavior under extreme loads

• Material selection for architectural needs

Module 4: Simulation and Modeling Tools

• Introduction to SAP2000, ETABS, ANSYS Workbench

• Finite Element Modeling (FEM) techniques

• Modal and frequency analysis

• Load path visualization and stress mapping

Module 5: Safety, Codes & Sustainability

• Design for resilience (earthquake-resistant design)

• Performance-based engineering

• Energy efficiency and structural sustainability

• Green building considerations and LEED relevance

Module 6: Structural Optimization & Innovation

• Structural systems for high-rise and irregular buildings

• Lightweight structures and long-span systems

• Parametric and generative structural design

• Value engineering and cost-efficiency strategies

Module 7: Practical Applications

• Industry case studies (bridges, towers, stadiums)

• Peer review of project progress

• Troubleshooting complex design issues

• Team collaboration techniques

Module 8: Capstone Project

• Design and simulate a complete structural system

• Submit full calculation sheets, CAD drawings, and simulation reports

• Present final project to jury panel or instructor for feedback

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🎓 Target Audience

• Structural and civil engineers seeking advanced design skills

• Architects collaborating with structural teams

• Graduate students in architecture or engineering fields

• BIM and simulation specialists looking to expand into structural analysis

• Professionals preparing for real-world multidisciplinary projects

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🕒 Time Frame

• Duration: 8 weeks

• Effort: 5–6 hours per week

• Structure:

  • 6 weeks: core modules

  • 1 week: simulation workshops

  • 1 week: final project submission and presentation

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🧭 Instruction Format

• Delivery: Online / Hybrid / In-person (flexible)

• Includes:

  • Pre-recorded expert video sessions

  • Hands-on simulation labs

  • Weekly assignments and quizzes

  • Live Q&A and design critique sessions

  • Downloadable references and guides

  • Capstone mentorship and feedback

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🎯 What You Will Learn

• Perform advanced structural analysis under dynamic and environmental loads.

• Design using high-performance materials like fiber-reinforced concrete and high-strength steel.

• Utilize simulation software such as SAP2000 and ANSYS for structural modeling.

• Apply safety and sustainability standards in modern structural systems.

• Execute a capstone project: structural design of a complex architectural form.

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📅 Time Frame

• Duration: 8 weeks

• Study Time: Approx. 5–6 hours/week

• Final Project: Week 8 – Structural design submission and presentation

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🖥️ Course Format

• Online or hybrid (depending on the institution)

• Weekly video lectures and readings

• Practical exercises using engineering software

• Interactive discussion forums

• Final project with feedback and evaluation

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📦 Materials Included

1. Course Manual (PDF) – theory, design procedures, codes

2. Video Lectures – HD recordings with real-case walkthroughs

3. Software Tutorials – SAP2000, ANSYS (simulation exercises)

4. Design Templates – structural drawings, load calculations

5. Case Studies – analysis of real complex structures

6. Quizzes & Assignments – reinforce learning after each unit

7. Capstone Project Brief – Design a structure with performance criteria

8. Reference Codes & Standards – ACI, Eurocode, ASCE excerpts

9. Certificate of Completion – Issued after final project approval

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✅ Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will:

• Master structural analysis techniques for irregular and high-performance buildings.

• Design safe and sustainable structural systems for architectural innovation.

• Build confidence in using engineering software for professional practice.

• Present structural design proposals with clarity and technical accuracy.