Aims and Fit of Module

This module aims to develop further the students’ design skills to simple timber and masonry structural components. Within the context of the module, the students will examine the structural behavior of both materials and the implement specific design requirements of the relevant Eurocodes.

Learning outcomes

A Implement knowledge acquired from construction materials and engineering structures to identify the various load conditions and structural behaviors of systems comprised by different materials.

B Implement methods drawn from structural analysis to design timber structural systems subjected to combined vertical and horizontal loads, within the framework of Eurocode 5 (EC5).


C Analyze and design, within the framework of EC5, the configuration of structural connections between timber-to-timber, steel-to timber and steel-to-steel structural elements.


D Implement methods drawn from structural analysis to design masonry structural systems subjected to combined vertical and horizontal loads, within the framework of EC6.


E Use specific rules drawn from structural analysis to design confined masonry structural systems subjected to combined vertical and horizontal loads, within the framework of EC6.



F Integrated design solutions to simple structural components.

Method of teaching and learning

Basic information is presented in the form of lectures on each material. The lectures are supplemented by a number of tutorial problems which the students attempt on their own. The coursework component involves the design of simple structural elements. Ongoing laboratory projects relevant to the taught will be included to help the students acquire a tangible experience on the actual behavior of the materials. Construction/manufacturing site visits may be included.