Structural systems are designed to resolve the conflict between human needs and the natural environment. There are five main kinds of structural systems: 1) “Frames” transfer loads to the ground by horizontal and vertical members, such as post and lintel and bearing wall-type construction. 2) "Corbel and Cantilever" systems are related to frames and arch-based systems respectively. 3) “Funicular” systems use curved shapes to bear applied loads, for example, arches, vaults, and tents. 4) “Trussed” systems are assemblies of ties acting in tension. There are cable trusses, space frames, stays, and geodesic domes. 5) “Shell” systems are thin, curved surface structures that transfer loads to supports by tension, compression and shear. Two examples are domed shells, and tensile, and folded plates.
The Freedom Tower that will replace the World Trade Center towers, destroyed on 9/11/2001, will use triangular-grid trusswork for its main structural support, which is even more stable than the rectangular shape that formed the structure of the World Trade towers.
Click a button above to select a type of structural system. Click the 1, 2, 3, or 4 button on the top to see illustrations and examples of the various systems.
