Structural design or structural building design in civil engineering is a specialized area that includes methods and tools that help determine the safety and economical specifications of a building structure design. This ensures the planned structure is strong enough to hold the intended load. As a structural engineer, your role will be to analyze how the internal and external forces affect the structure. You will design structures with the most appropriate materials and reinforcements to meet all the requirements, from client needs to government regulations.
The purpose of structural design in civil engineering is
multifaceted. Take a look at the key purposes below:
1. Built and Design
Structural building design directly affects the longevity
and stability of a structure. Building a structure without considering its
layout carries a risk of collapsing under its weight. Structural design helps
determine key factors such as foundations, walls, floors, steep beams, material
quality, etc., ensuring the built structure is safe and sound. Civil engineers
essentially work on aesthetic design principles to design structures that
withstand loads and pressure.
2. Safety and Compliance
Structural design analysis ensures that the structure
complies with the necessary design codes and safety requirements. An in-depth
analysis helps make informed decisions regarding the load a structure can
support, the wind speed it can withstand, and its overall capability in other
environmental conditions. For instance, structural design analysis could’ve
helped avoid the Hyatt Regency Hotel catastrophe we discussed above.
3. Construction Material
The material used to construct a structure guarantees its
operational usability and safety. Structural design helps choose the most
appropriate resources and materials for construction to ensure the structure’s
stability throughout its intended service life.
Advances in Structural Design
Structural design in civil engineering has continuously
evolved over the years, driven by technology, engineering knowledge, and
advancements in materials. These advances have shaped the construction
industry, enabling civil engineers to create safer, sustainable, and innovative
structures that meet the modern world’s demands. Read on to learn about some
advances in structural design:
1. Computational Tools and
Simulations
These tools allow you to create complex structures and
simulate how they will respond to various loads and forces in real-time,
enabling accurate and efficient structural analysis. Building Information
Modelling is a multidisciplinary approach that helps create a digital
representation of a building’s functional and physical characteristics. It has become
quite a name in structural design. It allows efficient and more integrated
design processes, enabling you to create 3D models and perform complex
simulations.
2. Advanced Materials
The material used for construction also plays a crucial role
in the overall longevity and stability of structures. Several high-performance
concrete materials are available in the market, including self-heating
concrete, that offer strength, durability, and resistance to environmental
factors. Besides, sustainable options such as cross-laminated timber can also
be used to maintain structural integrity.
3. Sustainability and Green
Design
Sustainable and recycled materials are being used widely to
reduce the environmental impact of constructing a structure. Engineers are also
incorporating passive design strategies to reduce the carbon footprints of a
building and maximize energy efficiency.
Types of Careers Involving
Structural Design
While many say that structure designers are responsible for
designing structures only, that’s not true! Careers in structural design offer
a wide range of opportunities in civil engineering and architecture. Here are
some common career paths involving structural design:
1. Civil Designer
As a civil designer, you will plan and draft 3D designs of
various structures and construction projects - roads, bridges, and sewage and
drainage systems. You will refer to topography surveys and maps for grading
nearby structures and use the information for building projects. This role will
require you to review drawings to ensure they are accurate and have obtained
proper permits from government authorities.
2. Design Engineer
As a design engineer, your responsibilities will include
researching and developing ideas for new designs and structures. You will
create blueprints, plans, drawings, and 3D models on software. You will test
prototypes for new designs and review the existing ones to identify the
potential risks and problems. You will also implement solutions to overcome the
existing issues. Additionally, your role will require estimating construction
costs, overseeing the construction process, and collaborating with other stakeholders.
3. Materials Engineer
Materials engineer is expected to develop, process, test,
and evaluate various materials to use while constructing a structure. Your role
will involve offering technical advice on the construction material, overseeing
quality control, and undertaking repairs and maintenance work. You might also
need to supervise technical staff and coordinate with suppliers.
4. Structural Designer
As a structural designer, you will use your knowledge to
create structural designs and digital models. While designing, you will
consider the designs of electrical, plumbing, and sewage systems and the
construction materials that the builder may use. You may also review and revise
the drawings and models to meet the client's requirements. However, you must
ensure that the final structure is safe and functional.
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