Week 7 History Of The Built Environment

Question 1

Describe the significance of Buckminster Fuller’s quote about the longbow.

Answer 1

The quote suggests that understanding and learning from the past enables greater achievements in the future.

Question 2

Define the term ‘Critical Path’ in the context of historical milestones.

Answer 2

Critical Path refers to the sequence of stages determining the minimum time needed for an operation, often used in project management and historical analysis.

Question 3

How did the Industrial Revolution impact master builders and structural theory?

Answer 3

The Industrial Revolution introduced new materials and technologies, leading to advancements in structural theory and the capabilities of master builders.

Question 4

Identify the time period associated with the Industrial Revolution.

Answer 4

The Industrial Revolution is generally recognized to have occurred from the 15th century to around 1840.

Question 5

Explain the relevance of the divorce mentioned in the historical context.

Answer 5

The divorce around 1775 may symbolize a significant societal or cultural shift, reflecting changes in relationships and structures during that era.

Question 6

What are key milestones in the development of structural theory?

Answer 6

Key milestones include the emergence of master builders, advancements during the Industrial Revolution, and the evolution of engineering principles.

Question 7

How does understanding historical context enhance modern building practices?

Answer 7

Understanding historical context allows modern builders to learn from past successes and failures, improving design and construction methods.

Question 8

Describe the time periods associated with the Builders.

Answer 8

The Builders are categorized into several time periods: 1400 - 1700, 1750 - 1850, 1850 - 1930, 1930 - 1980, and 1970 - present.

Question 9

Define the term ‘Master builders’ in the context of engineering history.

Answer 9

Master builders refer to skilled architects and engineers who played a significant role in construction and design during various historical periods.

Question 10

How did the role of engineers evolve from 1400 to 1980?

Answer 10

The role of engineers evolved from traditional building practices in the 1400s to more innovative and specialized techniques by 1980, reflecting advancements in technology and materials.

Question 11

List some notable figures associated with the Builders from the 20th century.

Answer 11

Notable figures from the 20th century include Gustavino, Maillart, Dieste, Candela, Nervi, Otto, Isler, Schlaich, Arup, Happold, Hunt, Rice, Wernick, Wise, and Baker.

Question 12

Identify the contributions of Brunelleschi in engineering.

Answer 12

Brunelleschi is known for his pioneering work in the development of linear perspective and for his architectural designs, particularly the dome of the Florence Cathedral.

Question 13

Explain the significance of the term ‘A New Era’ in the context of engineering.

Answer 13

‘A New Era’ signifies a period of innovation and transformation in engineering practices, marked by the introduction of new materials and technologies.

Question 14

Do the names listed represent a comprehensive list of engineers?

Answer 14

No, the list is not exhaustive; it acknowledges that there have been many engineers throughout history.

Question 15

Describe the contributions of Emily Roebling to bridge engineering.

Answer 15

Emily Roebling oversaw the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, which was the longest bridge in the world at the time, surpassing other bridges by around 100 meters.

Question 16

Define truss theory and its significance in engineering.

Answer 16

Truss theory is a framework used in engineering to analyze structures made of trusses, which are composed of triangular units. It is significant for understanding how forces are distributed in structures.

Question 17

How did the theories developed between 1750 and 1950 influence modern engineering?

Answer 17

The theories developed during this period, such as beam theory, masonry arches, and shell theory, laid the groundwork for modern structural engineering practices and design.

Question 18

Identify key theorists associated with truss theory and their contributions.

Answer 18

Key theorists include Cremona, Culmann, Varignon, Lame, Clapeyron, and Maxwell, who contributed to the development of various structural theories.

Question 19

Explain the importance of beam theory in structural analysis.

Answer 19

Beam theory is important in structural analysis as it helps engineers understand how beams support loads and how they deform under stress, which is crucial for safe design.

Question 20

Discuss the role of masonry arches in historical architecture.

Answer 20

Masonry arches played a crucial role in historical architecture by providing strong and durable structures, allowing for the construction of bridges and buildings that could span large distances.

Question 21

What advancements in structural theory occurred between 1750 and 1950?

Answer 21

Advancements included the development of truss frameworks, shell theory, and various other pioneering theories that enhanced the understanding of structural integrity and load distribution.

Question 22

Describe the contributions of Galileo to beam theory.

Answer 22

Galileo made significant early contributions to beam theory in 1638, laying the groundwork for understanding the behavior of beams under load.

Question 23

How did Hooke’s work influence beam theory?

Answer 23

Hooke’s work around 1676 introduced the concept of elasticity, which is crucial for understanding how materials deform under stress in beam theory.

Question 24

Define the significance of Bernoulli and Euler in the context of beam theory.

Answer 24

Bernoulli and Euler, in 1694, advanced beam theory by formulating mathematical principles that describe the bending of beams and their deflection.

Question 25

What advancements did Timoshenko bring to beam theory in 1921?

Answer 25

Timoshenko’s contributions in 1921 included the development of more refined theories that account for shear deformation and rotational inertia in beams.

Question 26

How did Varignon contribute to truss theory?

Answer 26

Varignon’s work in 1725 laid the foundation for graphic statics, which is essential for analyzing forces in truss structures.

Question 27

Describe the evolution of truss theory from Varignon to McRobie.

Answer 27

Truss theory evolved from Varignon’s initial concepts in 1725 through contributions by Lame, Clapeyron, and others, culminating in modern advancements by Allan McRobie in 2015.

Question 28

What role did Maxwell play in the development of truss theory?

Answer 28

Maxwell’s contributions in 1864 were pivotal in establishing principles of equilibrium and force analysis in truss structures.

Question 29

Describe the contributions of Cremona and Culmann to truss theory.

Answer 29

Cremona and Culmann made significant advancements in truss theory during the 19th century, focusing on graphical methods for analyzing forces in trusses.

Question 30

Define beam theory and its historical significance.

Answer 30

Beam theory is a fundamental concept in structural engineering that describes how beams behave under various loads, with historical contributions from theorists like Galileo and Hooke.