ABSTRACT
Structural engineering ensures that the loads of the building and its contents are transmitted safely and economically to the ground, allowing for considerations of function, aesthetics, internal and external environment and incorporating restraints imposed by other members of the building team, legislation, etc. Structural engineering requires the use of mathematics to determine the forces in the framing elements of a structure. Sizing of these elements is then carried out based on interpretation of guidance provided in Codes of Practice relevant to the material being used. Techniques in the majority of structural engineering Codes of Practice are based on the concept of limit state design. Traditionally, design involved calculating the maximum stress and deflection in a member under working load. Some structures are designed and constructed of members that act as struts and ties. Analysis methods assume that the members are pin jointed at their ends, which allows only the development of compressive or tensile forces in each member.
