Understanding and Designing Structures Without a Computer: Spatial Structural Systems, Dynamics and Foundations

Understanding and Designing Structures without a Computer: Spatial structural systems, dynamics and foundations explains fundamental concepts of structural analysis and design, providing readers with a clear understanding of the behaviour of a wide range of structural systems based on their load-carrying mechanisms.

The book employs a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative approach, supported by illustrative diagrams throughout. Clearly structured, the chapters guide readers from simple to complex concepts with new topics building on previous chapters. As a practical reference, this title equips readers with a solid understanding of universal structural principles, enabling safe conceptual and preliminary designs irrespective of the design code being used. It will also assist readers in interpreting and verifying computer-generated outputs.

This second volume in a two-book series delves into advanced topics such as spatial structural systems, dynamic behaviour, seismic response, and soil-structure interaction. It explores a wide range of subjects, including grillages, slabs, shells, rectilinear and curved thin-walled beams, rectilinear and curved box-girder bridges, and multi-storey systems. Additionally, it addresses the dynamic and seismic behaviour of structural systems, the performance of supporting structures on the ground, and soil-structure interaction.

Understanding and Designing Structures without a Computer: Spatial structural systems, dynamics and foundations is an accessible and authoritative resource for readers of all experience levels, fostering a solid understanding of structural behaviour without relying on computer models.

Dr Leonidas Stavridis is Professor of Structural Engineering and Design at National Technical University of Athens, Greece.

Dr Konstantinos Georgiadis MEng, MSc., PhD DIC, CEng, MICE is a Chartered Senior Bridge Engineer at Arup.