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Module Code - Title:

WT4117 - STRUCTURAL DESIGN

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

3

Lab

0

Tutorial

0

Other

1

Private

6

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

WT4503

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

This module is the second of two modules in the Construction Management + Engineering programme (WT4503 Structural Mechanics and WT4117 Structural Design) with a focus on limit state design and Eurocodes relevant to the design and performance of structures. The subsections in the Eurocodes (EC2 to EC7) are based on materials of construction. These have different histories, design philosophies, language terms and idiosyncrasies that relate to the behaviour of the materials, e.g. concrete is not the same as steel. The Eurocodes are a long-term project to harmonise structural design under the banner of this limit state design.

Syllabus:

The syllabus for WT4117 is designed to equip managers with the skills necessary to effectively communicate with subject specialists on site, despite not being specialists themselves. Correct communication requires a degree of understanding of the history and application of limit state design and how the Eurocodes manage this. The following is an indicative list of content to be covered in this module:                         • Introduction to structural design. • Materials of structures: construction materials, embodied carbon, recycling. • Limit state design: principles, actions, resistances, ULS, SLS. • Eurocodes: The über-Codes (EC0, EC1), basis of structural design, actions on structures, design loads, load combinations, verification steps, wind loading. • Eurocode 2 Concrete: reinforced concrete, rebar, simple beam design, simple column design, specials(T&L, slabs, foundations). • Eurocode 3 Steel: classification (elastic/plastic, buckling), simple beam design, simple column design. • Eurocode 5 Timber: creep, vibration, simple beam design. • Eurocode 6 Masonry: basic masonry design, the masonry wall, ties. • Multi-element structures: truss, frame (portal frame). • Connections: welds, bolts, nails.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On completion of this module the student will be able to... • Explain, understand and apply the Principles of Limit State Design. • Describe the material-specific aspects and sustainability of the major construction materials. • Identify and interpret the appropriate Eurocodes and apply them, particularly in the verification steps for compliant structural design. • Analyse and appraise basic structural design of simple structural elements of the more common construction materials in relation to Eurocodes. • Discriminate between different structural systems such as trusses and frames, and appreciate the special characteristics of portal frames

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

On completion of this module the student will be able to...                                                                                                                                                       • Develop empathy and awareness regarding the challenges and constraints faced by subject matter experts that they will encounter in the future

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

• N/A

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

This module WT4117, aims to develop a skillset in structural design concepts necessary for our graduates to take their place working in and influencing the construction sector, capable of managing construction projects with a strong emphasis on ethics, responsibility, compliance with regulations and sustainability. Through the learning environment - using a focused teaching approach, resources and supports, we aim to develop expert learners and global citizens who are: Curious - through having a questioning mindset and a solution focused perspective. Courageous - understanding the importance of standing up for what is right and ethical. Responsible - for the correct usage of resources and their own impact on the world. Agile - utilising proactivity to adapt to and drive change in their community and career supported by a continuous learning approach. Articulate - in that they can express themselves with a confidence grounded in sound learning. To develop these attributes, this module will be taught using a series of in-person lectures, tutorials and a selection of self-directed and collaborative learning activities so it is student-centred and in line with UL's Integrated Curriculum Development Framework (ICDF). Module learning materials are developed from a research-led perspective regarding content and the principles of Universal Design for Learning are used to ensure accessibility for all students. The module Brightspace site is designed and organised in a user-friendly format to maximise functionality. To allow for the incorporation of new developments and research findings in the subject material, the flexibility of blended learning methodologies is utilised - such as Flipped Classroom in the Tutorials, on-line video resources and recorded tutorials delivered through the Brightspace module site. The learning experience of students is directly affected by the design of learning materials, delivery of such materials and assessment thereof. The principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) have been applied so that Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation and Action & Expression are built in. Attention is also paid to the principles of Laurillard's ABC Curriculum Design process with all 6 learning types (Acquisition, Collaboration, Discussion, Investigation, Practice and Production) utilised in terms of delivery, engagement and assessment for the module. With regard to assessment - care is taken in the design of assessment vehicles used in the module so that they are challenge driven, authentic and constructively aligned with the Learning Objectives for the Module. A crucial piece of the learning experience is communication between faculty and students, as well as peer-to peer interactions. These will be proactively managed primarily through the channels available on Brightspace, plus direct contact between faculty and students before and after lectures and via e-mail.

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

McKenzie, W, (2013) Design of Structural Elements to Eurocodes, 2nd Edition , Red Globe Press, ISBN 9780230217713

Other Relevant Texts:

Chanakya, A (2022) Design of Structural Elements: concrete, steelwork, masonry and timber designs to Eurocodes, 4th edition , CRC Press, ISBN 9781032076317

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

BSCMENUFA - CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Autumn

Module Leader:

joshua.Mangvwat@ul.ie