Theory of Structures (3)

Of or pertaining to a structure or structural member having a shape that does not change appreciably under the action of an applied load or changing loads.

• rigid

• bulk-active structure

• vector-active structure

• flexible

A structure that redirects external forces primarily through the composition of tension and compression members, such as a truss.

• vector-active structure

• bulk-active structure

• surface-active structure

• form-active structure

a closed skeletal structural system composed of a set of three or more discontinuous compressive struts within a network of tensile tendons;

• tensegrity structure

• form-active structure

• linear structure

• surface structure

a major spatial division, usually one of a series, marked or partitioned off by the principal vertical supports of a structure.

• bay

• interstitial

• grid

• structural unit

a structural grid having points or lines of support spaced uniformly in one direction but varying in the other

• slipped grid

• linear grid

• double grid

• irregular grid

a discrete structure or assembly of structural members forming a spatial volume.

• structural unit

• structural grid

• structural pattern

• interstitial

Also called working load.

• service load

• design load

• allowable load

• factored load

for an existing structure, this procedure is also known as structural rating.

• structural analysis

• structural design

• limit state design

• resistance factor

the capacity of a structural material or component to resist the effects of loads, as determined by computation using specified materials strengths and dimensions and formulas derived from accepted principles of structural mechanics.

• resistance

• factor of safety

• limit state

• serviceability

a structural member essential to the stability of a structural whole.

• primary member

• tributary member

• bearing member

• load member