Structure of the Master Program

A: Introduction Modules:

IM 1 Basics on Membrane Structures 

  • Membrane example
  • Structural principles
  • Form finding by physical modeling

 

IM 2 Basics on Software

  • Introduction into membrane software
  • Form finding by computational modeling
  • Patterning
  • Load calculation

 

IM 2 Basics on Structural Engineering

       
  • Forces: definition, laws, equilibrium
  • Structure: form, function, analysis and design, behavior of common structures
  • Stress and strain: relationship, laws, properties of sections
  • Dynamics: motion of a particle, velocity and acceleration, laws, torque, work
  • Type of structures
  • Torsion of structures
  • Cables and arches
  • Structural design: codes and standards, limit states, loads
  • Steel work design

     

    B: Mandatory Modules:

    MM 1 Architecture:

    • Historical background
    • Design process
    • Methods for visualization
    • Form finding by computational modeling
    • Form finding by physical modeling
    • Physical patterning
    • Concept of utilization and applications

     

    MM 2 Numerical Theory:

    • Computational form finding methods, stress calculation and patterning
    • Mechanical modeling for FEM

     

    MM 3 Membrane Program:

    • Exercises by using the membrane software ix FORTEN4000 by Gerry D'Anza
    • Computational simulation of interaction of loads and large deformations
    • Structural design
    • Reactions at buildings

     

    MM 4 Structural Design and Detail:

    • Detailing
    • Cables
    • Interaction of main structure, substructures and membrane
    • Retractable systems and movement mechanisms
    • Cable structures
    • Foundations

     

    MM 5 Mechanical and Physical Properties:

    • Testing of the mechanical material properties
    • Quality controlling and certification
    • International standards for testing
    • Mechanical properties, mechanical theories and modeling
    • Evidences of fire protection, hail stone and some others
    • Cables

     

    MM 6 Dimensioning:

    • Exposures and its super position for load assumptions of membrane Structures
    • Wind tunnel investigations for soft structures
    • Reduction factors for fabrics and foils
    • Mechanical characteristics of membrane materials
    • Static concepts for membrane structures
    • International approvals, safety levels and norms

     

    MM 7 Building Physics:

    • Thermal insulation
    • Sound insulation
    • Fire protection
    • Moisture proofing
    • Sustainable building

     

    MM 8 Internship Theory - Fabrication and Project Management:

    • Confection and fabrication
    • Connections at boundaries and edges
    • Welding techniques and machines
    • Transportation and erection principles
    • Quality assurance
    • Site facilities and operational safety
    • Project management
    • Quotation
    • Calculation of costs
    • Service and maintenance
    • Quantity survey

     

    C: Optional Modules (OM):

    • Pneumatic Structures
    • Studio Detailing and Patterning
    • Bionics and Experimental Structures
    • Foldable and Umbrellas
    • Membrane Surveying
    • Visualisation

     

    D: Internship

    The internship lasts 4 weeks and among others can to be carried out at some of the companies that sponsoring the master program. Please have a look at the list of sponsors. Other companies in that field will be accepted on request.

     

     

     

    D: Master Thesis and Colloquium

    The Master Thesis is scheduled during the fourth semester and has to be defended within a Colloquium.


    Changes of the program are still possible.