What are the challenges in structural design for irregularly shaped buildings?
The structural design of non-standard geometric buildings represents the most critical and challenging aspect of their realization. The difficulties extend far beyond merely “how to make it stand,” permeating the entire process from concept development and calculations through construction and use. Below are the primary challenges in the structural design of non-standard geometric buildings, presented in order from core to derivative issues: 1. Core Mechanical Challenge: Non-Standard Load Paths In traditional buildings (such as rectangular boxes), load transfer paths are clear and direct: floor slab → beam → column → foundation → ground. Forces are primarily transmitted vertically downward. In contrast, load paths in irregularly shaped structures are often highly complex and convoluted. Challenge: Forces do not obediently travel straight downward. They “detour” through curved surfaces, diagonal bracing, and irregular grids, generating massive torsional forces, bending moments, and hor...