Structural Design and Engineering

How to create design drawings

Design drawings can be created by hand or using a software such as Onshape or Fusion 360. This will be required if you qualify for the semifinalist round when tasked with building a structure on-site.

Understanding of Structural Integrity

In order to make the most efficient structure, knowledge of material strength, load paths, and geometry is integral.

Documentation Portfolio

1. Title page

2. Team verification form

3. Three-View drawing of structure

Prebuilt Structure

I don't know where to find the details on this

CAD Software

• Onshape - Easy to use and learn

• Fusion 360 - More functions than Onshape, but moderately easy to use

Structural Integrity

• Science Buddies - Simple experiments to learn about load types, failure, etc.

• TryEngineering - Can find activities to perform at home to learn about the basics  

• PBS Nova  - Interactive site on various structures, teaches forces, and how to avoid failure

Load: A force applied to a structure. There are three variations: Dead, Live, and Environmental

Stress: Internal force per unit area (Force / Area)

Strain: Amount of deformation in a material when stress is present

Structural Integrity: Structure's ability to not break under loads

Truss: A triangular framework that increases strength

Load Path: Path forces follow through a structure to the ground

Bracing: Structural elements that increase stability

Span: Distance between two supports

Failure: When a structure cannot hold a load