Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Columns under Combined Axial Load and Bending in Accordance with a Nonlinear Numerical Model

A nonlinear numerical model was developed to analyze reinforced concrete columns under combined axial load and bending up to failure. Results of reinforced concrete columns under eccentric compression tested to failure are presented and compared to results from a numerical nonlinear model. The tests involved 10 columns with cross-section of 250 mm × 120 mm, geometrical reinforcement ratio of 1.57% and concrete with compression strength around 40 MPa, with 3,000 mm in length. The main variable was the load eccentricity in the direction of the smaller dimension of cross-section. Experimental results of ultimate load and of the evolution of transverse displacements and concrete strains are compared with the numerical results. The estimated results obtained by the numerical model are close to the experimental ones, being suitable for use in verification of elements under combined axial load and bending.

Architectural Teaching and Design Computing： A Didactic Experience in a Brazilian Architecture Course

In the last years, architectural practice has been confronted with a paradigm shift towards the application of digital methods in design activities. In this regard, it is a pedagogic challenge to provide a suitable computational background for architectural students, to improve their ability to apply algorithmic-parametric logic, as well as fabrication and prototyping resources to design problem solving. This challenge is even stronger when considering less favored social and technological contexts, such as in Brazil, for example. In this scenario, this article presents and discusses the procedures and the results from a didactic experience carried out in a design computing-oriented discipline, inserted in the curriculum of a Brazilian architecture course. Hence, this paper shares some design computing teaching experiences and presents some results on computational methods and creative approaches, with a view to contribute to a better understanding about the relations between logical thinking, mathematics and architectural design processes.

Evaluation of Thermal Comfort Level in Social Interest Housing with Earth Tubes for the Brazilian Bioclimatic Zones 1, 2 and 7

The expansion of social housing in Brazil is solving the great demand among low-income populations, ltowever, these projects are not considering climatic factors and thermal comfort strategies. There is a standardization of architectural projects, which leads to the user discomfort. Bioclimatic solutions that improve the thermal performance of buildings should be valued in the projects of buildings. This paper presents a comparative study noticing the thermal comfort provided by a earth tube ventilation system with a natural ventilation system based in the opening of the windows. In this study, three Brazilian bioclimatic zones defined by NBR （Brazilian Standard） 15220 （2005）, Zone 1 （Curitiba）, 2 （Camaqu~,） and 7 （Cuiabfi）, were considered. To make this comparison, computer simulation was used to observe the thermal confort conditions in RTQ-R （Quality Technical Standard for Energy Efficiency Level in Residential Buildings） （2010）, with the help of Energy Plus software and Schektch Up with the plug in Open Studio for modeling the residence. After the energy modeling, the results were analyzed with the Analisys Bio software in order to obtain the percentage of hours of comfort for the year （8,760 h）. The conclusion is drawn that the natural ventilation strategy with the opening and closing of the windows is more efficient in Bioclimatic Zone 1. For the Bioclimatic Zone 2, the earth tubes should be used only in the summer and, in Bioclimatic Zone 7, earth tubes are efficient throughout the year because of the high temperatures in the exterior environment.

A Comparative Architectural Study of the Structural Form between Two Religious Buildings in Brasilia： The Cathedral and the Tibetan Stupa

Brasilia, born of the urban plan by Lficio Costa and of the unexpected concrete structural forms designed by Oscar Niemeyer, knew how to adapt to the new forms that came from the country＇s religious syncretism. This article aims to compare, through religious symbolism, structural forms and architectural spaces, two sacred monuments： The cathedral of Brasilia （1958-1967） and the stupa of the Tibetan Buddhist Center, inaugurated in 2006. The millenary construction form of the stupa, one of the primordial sacred structures for all Buddhism traditions, the sacred symbol of enlightenment, must obey some construction rules according to its lineage＇s Buddhist tradition. In this way, the stupa is the opposite of a strong and fearless structural form embodied in the cathedral, with its 16 revolution hyperboloid concrete pillars and its subterranean entrance. Although built in concrete both are unusual forms of architecture with distinct spatial conception and sculptural form structures. While respecting religious differences, it is noticeable a real commitment between form and structure, volume and religious symbolism. At the conclusion, it is perceivable how distinct forms--the Cathedral and the Stupa--can respond in analog manners to the necessity of a gathering space where visitors go in search of expressing their faith. Along with them, Buddhism and Catholicism are rooted in Brazil＇s new capital.

Teaching Architecture through Design References： The Contribution of Brazilian Journals in the Publication of Visitable Architectures

The aim of this work is to illuminate how the architectural publication in Brazil is influenced by the location of its economic poles. Although the main specialized journals are nationwide read and the published projects are frequently used as design references by students at architecture schools all over Brazil, it appears to be a favor for those projects located at the southeast region. In order to investigate this initial assumption, we selected two of the most influential architectural journals, A U and Project Design magazines, focusing on visitable projects that are, therefore, capable of offering an experience for learning about architectural project. The analysis covered three years of publications in which four states in Brazil were distinguished： Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais and Federal District. The collected data show that the published visitable projects coincide with the economic poles around centered cities in Brazil, as well as the location of architecture schools and specialized media, becomes evident; not only because of the greater number of projects in the Sao Paulo area, but mainly because most of the published projects are located in the capitals of the analyzed poles.

Photogrammetric Survey of the Historical Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário and São Benedito in Brazil

In the history of cities and society,architecture plays an important role in the materialization of buildings,in the ways of life and in the constitution of an era.Documenting architectural heritage is an essential task for the conservation,management and collection of knowledge,however it is a time consuming and costly task.Presently,the application of digital aerial and terrestrial photogrammetry has made this process simpler,more agile and of relatively low cost.In this context,the objective of this study was to analyze the visual and geometric quality of the 3D model,of architectural heritage,generated by photogrammetric techniques.To this end,topographic mapping(reference)and aerial and terrestrial photogrammetric surveys of the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário and São Benedito,in Estrela do Sul/MG,Brazil,which is a historical and cultural heritage of the country,were carried out.Adopted as a reference,the 3D topographic model was generated by the points collected with a total station.To generate the photogrammetric 3D model,aerial photos were obtained using a UAV(Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)and terrestrial photos,acquired at strategic points.In both cases the PowerShot SX260HS camera was used.The two georeferenced 3D models were analyzed visually,considering texture and completeness,and compared geometrically through coordinates of homologous points.Comparatively,the photogrammetric 3D model presented results with a wealth of details far superior to the topographic ones and a geometry with centimetric discrepancies,showing that the method is suitable for generating 3D models relating to architectural heritage.

A study on the form contemporary developments of Tabriz leather and shoe Bazaar(marketplace)from the late Qajar to current period

Bazaars are considered essential components of a society’s economy and significant features in the urban context of cities,which have emerged based on exchanging goods and meeting people’s needs.Since the late Qajar period,amidst the rapid changes resulting from interaction with modernization,the form of Tabriz Grand Bazaar has undergone significant changes.The research aims to explain the contemporary transformations of marketplace form in the leather and shoe sectors.The objectives aim to elucidate the contemporary physical,functional,and sementic changes and propose strategies.The research method is qualitative,with a phenomenological approach.The results indicate that the Bazaar has lost some physical and sementic functions.Despite providing goods,it has failed to meet the public’s demands because of eliminating production workshops by changing the productive function to service-oriented and the size and shape of spaces.The decline of religious activities is also one reason for the diminished sementic dimension.Regarding functional and physical aspects,some proposed solutions include preserving the authenticity of the spaces and utilizing suitable Functions with the dominant architectural style.Regarding sementic characteristics,suggestions include enhancing the sense of identity.

Household model of rainwater harvesting system in Mexican urban zones

This paper describes a household model of the rainwater harvesting system in residential development of Tlaquepaque Jalisco Mexico. Harvested rainwater is estimated for designing a rainwater catchment system which reflects the maximum water supply to a household.Based on the estimation of the harvested rainwater the total water demand is calculated in order to explore the possible uses of rainwater. Major components in the rainwater catchment system are as follows catchment area downspout roof drain pipe and first flush tank cistern infiltration well pumping station and filtering system and ultraviolet UV water treatment.The rainwater harvesting system is designed to operate as the part of the central water supply system.This paper exposes the process of design and construction and its cost.In this way it aims to establish a technical and conceptual reference which enables the citizens to design their rainwater systems and their construction. This model will produce an important experience that can help to improve the systems in a Mexican context.It can be also useful for the international community.

Stone Claddings in the Corporate Real Estate Enterprises Citicorp Center and RochaveráCorporate Towers in Sao Paolo,Brazil

This article deepens the theme treated in other1 that approaches the evolution of the productive chain and of the technology of application of stone cladding in Sao Paulo,Brazil.For the study of this productive chain it is noticed that there takes place growing improvement of the quality of these claddings.Now two important buildings are analyzed:Citicorp Center(1986)and RochaveráCorporate Towers(2012).This work is in the context of extensive research for realization of the thesis of doctorate of the author in the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism of the Mackenzie Presbyterian University,Sao Paulo,Brazil,2 where is valued the quality of contemporary projects,executed in the last 30 years,which adopted claddings with stone plates in his facades and relevant aspects of the productive chain of the industry of the rocks.

Geometric Shape, Structure and Material in Antoni Gaudí’s Work: The Colònia Güell Crypt and the Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia

This paper is aimed at promoting a reflection on architect Antoni Gaudí’s experimental method in the search for understanding the definition of the forms,structures,and constructive techniques applied by him in his various works,as in his processes of experimentation and formal modeling.In his legacy in the field of civil construction,we can highlight the development of the funicular method,known by the structural analysis and definition methodology that allows,in an original way,for the creation of the base geometry of his constructive elements through the association of traction experiments to their deformations and loads along their structure.In the field of architecture and civil engineering,the study of constructive techniques based on basic concepts of descriptive geometry and experimentation is of great importance in the field of digital technologies,as it enables the advancement of structural efficiency and plasticity,reinforced by the form-finding parametric modeling method currently.Therefore,to establish a parallel between the formal analysis worked by the Catalan architect and the current approaches of digital modeling,two of his works,Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia and Iglesia de la Colònia Guell,will be highlighted,which will be studied for their technical and formal effectiveness with the aid of parametric modeling programs.

Study of the Productive Chain of Stone Facings in Contemporary Buildings in Sao Paulo, Brazil

This article presents, based on field survey and in the consulted literature, the main procedures for fixing of claddings with plates of rocks, adopted in the city of Sao Paulo for buildings and contemporary urban works. There was an increase in the quality of these claddings in the last decades due to several factors, such as the adoption of technological innovations in the extraction process of the rocky material and in the productive chain and, also, the use of most modem procedures for projects in which are incorporated new knowledge for better use of the rocky material and reduction of waste, due to greater demands of the market in the sector of omamental stones.

The Arckitbuilding Bricks as a Didactic Tool for Experimentation in Architectural Design： Possibilities and Limitations

This article deals with the usage of building bricks as a didactic material for the development of architectural design. The building brick game chosen for analysis was the Arckit, since it is suitable for the architectural practice. It is estimated that this game can contribute to the design, representation and presentation of projects. In order to investigate in which aspects Arckit presents possibilities of applications, as well as limitations of use, the article approaches the importance of building bricks as a didactic tool and its use in the field of the architectural design process. From a literature review and an empirical experience, this article reports a qualitative research, where the applicability of the Arckit game was checked. Through a critical reflection based on that experience, it was possible to conclude that whereas its limitations to urban form and linked to the formal vocabulary that composes the grammar of these bricks, the Arckit building bricks represent in architecture a playful and experimental way to think and design, fomenting the creativity and the spatial perception, resulting in a particular experience that can make architecture better connected with dreams and joy.

Verification of the Passive House Concept to the South of Brazil Climate

The high impact of the building＇s sector on energy consumption and on the environment has led to increased concerns on the performance of indoor thermal buildings, and led many countries to define stricter requirements for their building legislation. In 2010, the European Union has established that by the end of 2020 all new buildings must have energy consumption close to zero （NZEBs （nearly zero energy buildings））, increasing the pursue for more efficient building design. One way to achieve buildings with low energy consumption while maintaining a high thermal comfort is the passive house concept. The paper presents an architectural project designed to meet the Passive House requirements for the climate of southern Brazil. The energy balance was carried out using the energy balance toot-PHPP （passive house planning package）, that verified the compliance of the prerequisites required for certification, which are related to the primary energy consumption, heating, cooling demand and overheating rate of the building.

Analysis of the Influence of New Usages on the State of Conservation of Historical Buildings through Microclimate Characterization

Recycling is an alternative for preserving historical heritage buildings. Through such process, buildings are occupied by new usages that assure they are not abandoned. However, conservation issues, like pathological manifestations by filamentous fungi, are common even in buildings receiving new uses. Thus, it is extremely important to know the microclimate behavior of these buildings and analyze if there are usages that favor the appearance of filamentous fungi or not. This study aims to verify if new usages modify the microclimate in historical buildings and if such possible change favors the appearance of pathological manifestations by filamentous fimgi in some specific use. To achieve the results, three buildings that have gone through recycling processes were chosen in the city of Pelotas, in Southernmost Brazil. The city possesses a large number of buildings with historical value and its climate conditions are propitious for appearance of filamentous fungi. For 12 months, microclimate was monitored, the environments modus operandi was characterized and there was a survey on the pathological manifestations by filamentous fungi in the three buildings with two different uses： administration offices and exhibition rooms. Conclusion was that usages that allow natural ventilation and lighting favor conservation, which is what happens in the ones used as administration offices. Besides that, it was noticed that the construction system also influences, since buildings with a high cellar that is being used did not present filamentous fungi, which also shows the influence of ascending humidity on the appearance of such pathological manifestations.

Favela’s Houses as Design Reference： Using Shape Grammar

Shape grammar has been used by many researchers to identify and/or define languages in architectural design. This paper presents a methodology developed using shape grammar to analyze the informal city, specifically Favela da Rocinha’s buildings, in Rio de Janeiro. The goal was finding the organizational foundations of self-built houses in an informal settlement. A methodology was developed to find composition patterns and to infer a set of rules which defines a shape grammar of Rocinha houses, allowing synthesis and analysis of low cost solutions for house designs. And above all, it highlights underlying design solutions produced empirically by inhabitants of favelas, emphasizing the diversity in favela’s architecture, and, that is also able to reflect the particular necessities of targeted population.

Traditional Structures Technologies in Tekye-Amir-Chakhmagh

Iranian traditional architecture can be identified in many of its old famous buildings in the country. The principles and specifications in these buildings show the intelligence of implemented techniques that makes them to remain stable. Thus, it is important to explore the traditional structures and architectural technologies in order to understand the reasons for this stability toward the new methods in modem architecture. Many of historical buildings in Iran have remained standing after many years and they show the deep wisdom of their architects. The purpose of this article is studying the various aspects of traditional structure and integration between this well-oriented structure and architecture. For reaching this goal, we refer to Tekye-Amir-Chakhmagh in Yazd as our case study, which is one of the most important and noticeable examples of Iranian traditional architecture. By introducing Amir-Chakhmagh Complex, we analyzed the specifications and fundamental elements that played an important role in stability and sustainability of Tekye-Amir-Chakhmagh and thereafter, we assessed the technologies that were used intelligently and intricately in this historical building. In this research, information is collected with field study and library resources. Finally, qualities and characteristics of the structure are studied by drawings and structural analysis and as conclusion, the suggestions and guidelines are presented.

Thermal Bridges Impact on Energy Consumption in Residential Buildings Considering the Brazilian Bioclimatic Zoning

With the considerable increase in electric power consumption, searching for buildings with lower energy impact has become a crucial factor on controlling energy consumption, as well as designing buildings with high thermal comfort. Thermal bridges are weak points in buildings where the thermal resistance varies considerably between two distinct points. Depending on the situation, the existence of thermal bridges in a building can be favorable to the achievement of the expected thermal comfort and lower energy consumption. The aim of this paper is to analyze the impact of thermal bridges of reinforced concrete structure regarding to energy consumption for residential buildings in the Brazilian bioclimatic zones. The used method is characterized by computer simulations of distinct cases configured with and without thermal bridges. The results show that in most bioclimatic zones, the presence of thermal bridges in the wall composition contributes to the reduction of energy consumption for both heating and cooling, and independent of the wall＇s insulation level, solar absorptance is a major factor in the energy consumption levels, walls with smaller absorptance consume less and this consumption increases gradually with increasing absorptance.

Morphological Essay on Favela da Rocinha through Shape Grammar

Favelas and other types of informal settlements are important urban issues in several regions around the world,especially in developing countries.They are the housing solution found by populations with no access to formal real estate market,who still suffer with the precariousness of both buildings and urban infrastructure.This paper presents a brief overview on governmental policies for favelas in the city of Rio de Janeiro along the 20th century,until the present moment,to observe hits and misses and present a morphological study about Rocinha,the biggest favela in Brazil.This work is based on the principles of Shape Grammar and demonstrates patterns of composition,organized in sets of rules that allow producing new designs.The intention is to create a proposal for an objective reading of typical favela spaces,to determine standards and rules that may contribute to architectural and urban designs that are more adequate to the populations they are designed for.

Comparative study of the factors affecting the generativity of office spaces

This study investigated the categories of generative and conservative offices by using syntactic theories and conducting a comparative analysis of two different layout con figurations. Gen erativity depends on several features that in elude but are not limited to spatial criteria. Generativity is also affected by aspects that extend beyond the physical, such as the symbolic relati on ship between the social orga nism of an orga nizati on and the in ternal structure of a workplace. Results show that no con sistent relati on ship exists between spatial variables and behaviors even though the examined layouts satisfy an organization's basic cultural requiremen ts, in cludi ng privacy, territoriality, and hierarchy. Spatial parameters in crease the potential for generativity, but such increase is not guaranteed without necessary changes in the attitudes, programs, and policies of organizations. Recognizing the limits of spatial variables requires evidence-based field research on office settings to determine operational and tailormade solutions.

Courtyard design impact on indoor thermal comfort and utility costs for residential households: Comparative analysis and deep-learning predictive model

A courtyard is an architectural design element which is often known as microclimate modifiers and is responsible to increase the indoor occupant comfort in traditional architecture. The aim of this study is to conduct a parametric evaluation of courtyard design variants in a residential building of different climates with a focus on indoor thermal comfort and utility costs. A brute-force approach is applied to generate a wide range of design alternatives and the simulation workflow is conducted by Grasshopper together with the environmental plugins Ladybug and Honeybee. The main study objective is the evaluation of the occupant thermal comfort in an air-conditioned residential building, energy load, and cost analysis, derived from different design variables including courtyard geometry, window-to-wall ratio, envelope materials, heating, and cooling set-point dead-bands, and building geographical location. Furthermore, a Deep Learning model is developed using the inputs and outputs of the simulation and analysis to transform the outcomes into the algorithmic and tangible environment feasible for predictive applications. The results suggest that regarding the thermal loads, costs, and indoor thermal comfort index (PMV), there are high correlations between the outdoor weather variation and dead-band ranges, while in extreme climates such as Singapore, courtyard spaces might not be efficient enough as expected. Finally, the highly accurate deep learning model is also developed, delivering superior predictive capabilities for the thermal comfort and utility costs of the courtyard designs.