Open AccessFeasibility Study on Replicating Tree Design Structure in Trusses Subjected to Lateral Loading
Author(s) -
Kian Lim Yap,
Anwar Mohammed Parvez,
Jayaprakash Jaganathan,
Wael Elleithy,
Teck Leong Lau
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
international journal of engineering and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2227-524X
DOI - 10.14419/ijet.v7i3.36.29084
Subject(s) - truss , rigidity (electromagnetism) , structural engineering , flexibility (engineering) , durability , tree (set theory) , frame (networking) , computer science , engineering , mathematics , mechanical engineering , mathematical analysis , statistics , database
This paper explores the question as to whether designs found in nature can assist in improving current design of structures. The objective of replication of nature is to increase strength and durability with further emphasis on reducing material usage. The basis of this investigation starts with frame structure in the shape of the slope of a tree stump. The study focusses on the effectiveness of various truss design and how it compares to the design found in nature. Although the tree design was found to be no better than the existing frame structures (in terms of rigidity), it still may be potential in other application. In comparison to conventional truss design, the design following tree stump demonstrates a higher flexibility that may prove to be potentially beneficial in resisting lateral load resulting from wind or earthquake.