bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspects of Reversibility and Energy Efficiency of Prefabricated Straw Structures – Guidelines for Sustainable Design of Architectural Interventions of 21st Century
Authors: Mihmić Amina , Salihbegović Amira
Published: December 2021

Architectural space of the 21st century confirms, for the umpteenth time that, architecture is a personified image of society: The products of architectural interventions are the final creations in time and space. The whims of the market, the linear economy model, and users' pluralistic needs generated by cultural preferences mutually develop "white elephants" - inert material, useless and expensive to deconstruct. In response to social, environmental, climate, and economic changes, the construction sector needs to revalue existing construction techniques. The lack of broader application of the circular economy model, the use of inorganic materials and chemical bonds in architectural structures, due to the loss of cultural significance or the appearance of natural disasters, are deprived of their function and produce a large amount of waste. Therefore, the reuse of organic materials derived from renewable energy sources is becoming essential for pushing further the boundaries of reversible design and energy efficiency in architectural interventions. Limits of use of the old – new materials - compressed straw are defined by comparing the results of thermal properties of the building envelope elements - U and R values and levels of reversibility through two opposite approaches to construction, on the example of the conceptual design of a housing unit affected by natural disasters. Analysing the three levels of reversibility that 21st century buildings should possess, given the existing research, the material level limit is shifted in terms of returning to nature with potentially zero environmental waste. Comparing the results of the R values of prefabricated straw structures with the R values of materials predominantly used in architectural interventions raises awareness of the importance and benefits of using compressed straw in architectural envelopes. Existing design parameters of straw structures are optimized by valorising the importance of local climate and materials used. The interaction of native - cellulosic materials breaks down dogmas related to this material and generates the architectural language of reversible and energy-efficient architectural straw products.
Expert insight into the spatial aspects and challenges facing metropolitan regions in Central Europe – Case study Bratislava region
Authors: Ondrejička Vladimír , Ladzianska Zuzana , Finka Maroš , Jamečný Ľubomír , Husár Milan , Pauditšová Eva
Published: December 2021

Territorial development of metropolitan regions is broadly problematized in several international documents, strategies and policies. Following from their analysis there is a pending requirement of safeguarding sustainable development as the basis of any urban and metropolitan development concepts. Although there are several concepts addressing particular aspects of sustainable urban development in the world, all of them are basically framed by a square defined by four core concepts. Two of them are more structural, focused on spatial patterns and two processual addressing the life processes of socio-ecosystems of cities. These four concepts - Compact City, Polycentric City, Smart City and Eco/Green City, are mentioned in the New Leipzig Charter – The transformative power of cities for the common good published by the European Commission in 2020. Currently, there is no consensus on defining the criteria for identification of metropolitan regions and their territories that would reflect the diversity and specifics in metropolitan regions across the EU Member States. The OECD favours the definition of a metropolitan region not as an administrative unit but as a nodal territory. In addition, the definition of metropolitan regions clashes with the fuzzy nature of their borders, which change over time and in relation to the aspects of their identification. Paper handles the issue of metropolitan regions in Central Europe with the focus on Bratislava metropolitan region. The paper is based on research project Territorial Prognosis Bratislava 2050 developed by Spectra Centre of Excellence with the aim to identify and describe crucial trends and challenges for the development of the Bratislava region based on global megatrends and local specifics and processes and to identify principles for future sustainable development of the region until 2050. Within the broader relations, it is necessary to take into account the development in the functional urban area of the Bratislava-Vienna agglomeration, the so-called core territory of Central European metropolitan region, which also extends to the neighbouring self-governing regions (Nitra and Trnava), the federal states of Burgendland, Niederoesterreich and Vienna and the county of Gyor-Moson-Sopron in Hungary. The outcome of the case study defines trends and their projection for the future territorial development of the Bratislava region based on thematic analysis of economy, social ecology, socio-cultural and environmental, transport, housing, services, social infrastructure, technical infrastructure and energy.
The Use of Mathematical Modelling Methods in the Creation of Composite Materials Based on Carbon Fibre Materials
Authors: Varentsov Valery , Kuzina Valentina , Koshev Alexander , Varentsova Valentina
Published: December 2021

The report provides data on the electrochemical modification of carbon-graphite fibers as the basis for the creation of composite materials. The results of studies of the electrodeposition of metals on pre-electrochemically modified carbon fiber materials (CFM) in order to obtain composite materials based on them are presented. The use of CFM for the creation of composite materials is associated with the possibility of deposition of metals, alloys or their compounds on the surface of their constituent fibers. Electrochemical treatment in aqueous solutions of electrolytes is a promising method for modifying the surface properties of carbon materials, including in order to improve their adhesive properties. Preliminary electrochemical modification of carbon fiber materials in indifferent solutions of electrolytes made it possible to obtain composite and nanocomposite materials with good adhesion of the electrodeposited metal to the surface of the fibers of carbon materials.When metals are deposited on carbon fiber materials, it is necessary to solve the problem of applying a uniform metal deposit or with a certain profile in the thickness of the material. In this case, it is effective to use methods of mathematical modeling of metal deposition processes in a flowing three-dimensional electrode. Depending on the selected modes of deposition of metal sediment on the CFM, some electrochemical parameters of the process and system may be dependent on both the time of the process and the thickness coordinate of the electrode. This is especially true for the value of the resistivity of the solid phase of the system, that is, carbon-graphite fibrous material. Other electrochemical parameters, such as the specific electrode surface, the exchange current and the transfer coefficient of the electrochemical reaction, the porosity of the material, etc., can also change during the electrodeposition of the metal on the CFM. It is proposed to take into account the change in the characteristic properties of modified carbon fiber materials in the mathematical modeling of the processes of electrodeposition of metals on carbon fiber materials in order to determine the technological parameters to improve the efficiency of the properties of composite materials. In order to implement mathematical models used in the calculation of electrochemical processes in the volume and on the surface of carbon fiber materials, a set of programs based on modern computational methods and programming languages has been developed.
Construction Technology and Management of Unilateral Support Formwork for 16M-High Concrete Outer Wall of Complex Deep Foundation Pit
Authors: Zhao Yuchao , Cai Jie , Yin Kai , Cheng Hao , Zheng Jinsong , Zhang Qilin
Published: December 2021

Shanghai Grand Opera House, which is under construction in Shanghai, China, includes two relatively large opera halls, which are named as the large opera hall and the middle opera hall. Below the stages of these two opera halls are two deep stage pits where the mechanical equipment will be arranged after construction, therefore, the structure of these stage pits is designed to be basically hollow with only a small amount of floor slabs on the edges. For the most sections of the stage pits, the depth is 16m, and the arrangement of horizontal supports and lattice columns in the stage pits during the construction period is extremely complicated. To prevent the outer walls of the stage pits from leaking and further guarantee the quality of the structure, the unilateral support formwork, which is composed of multiple steel components as load bearing members, is applied to construct the 16m outer wall of the stage pits. In this paper, first, the specific working principle of the unilateral support formwork and numerical analysis of its construction steps are introduced. Then focus on explaining that through establishing detailed digital 3D models of the complex stage pits during construction period, the practical construction sequence and construction technologies are designed and formulated, meanwhile, the on-site staff can also be guided directly through digital 3D models, which guarantee the visualization of the complex technology and the convenience of on-site construction as well. The construction of the deep stage pits is currently in progress, and part of the outer wall has already been constructed successfully. The cost of the technology is certainly more than common construction methods, but it is still acceptable since most of the formwork members can be recycled and re-use, while the advantages are obvious. Finally, the main characteristics of the construction technology of the unilateral support formwork for 16m-high concrete outer wall is summarized and discussed, which can provide a reference for the construction of similar structures.
Features of the formation of modern Ethno- Architecture of the residential environment of Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Kozhobaeva Saltanat
Published: December 2021

Period of formation of Residential architecture of Kyrgyzstan has a long history. It was based on the stages of housing development from antique time to present day. According to analysis of literary and scientific sources, Kyrgyz people had not only nomadic lifestyle but also a sedentary lifestyle. So many scientists and researchers studied architecture of past eras based on archeological excavations, which testified civilization and life style of Kyrgyz people. Based on this, we can conclude, that Kyrgyz architecture has a history of sedentary and nomadic type of housing with its national identity and coloring, which today should give impetus to formation and to development of modern ethno-architectural living environment of Kyrgyzstan.
Model Investigations of Scouring at the Hričov Weir Using Short-Range Photogrammetry
Authors: Rumann Ján , Pavúček Martin , Dušička Peter
Published: December 2021

Stilling basins are commonly used to efficiently dissipate energy of flow at weirs. Different types of stilling basins are used at weirs due to different conditions – hydraulic, operational, constructional. At the Hričov water structure a short stilling basin has been built. Its operation over the years showed that it does not dissipate the energy of the flowing water sufficiently, which causes intense scouring in the riverbed downstream. To partially deal with this problem and to protect the riverbed from scours, a rockfill embankment supported with a steel construction was constructed adjacent to the stilling basin’s toe. Despite this riverbed fortification, scours are being created in the riverbed and even in the fortification itself for different cases of operation conditions of the weir. A hydraulic research on a scaled model of the weir was used to investigate the problem and to propose a permanent solution significantly improving the scouring downstream the weir. The proposed fortification of the riverbed downstream the weir was tested at different operational conditions, which simulated extreme situations at the weir. To assess the effects of the investigated fortification, the simulations were performed for the weir without and with the fortification. After each simulation, the deformations in the riverbed (scours) were measured and evaluated. For measuring the riverbed deformations on the model, the method of short-range photogrammetry was used as a very effective and contactless method. This method allowed to examine the investigated area with a very high accuracy and speed. Digital models of the riverbed deformations created after each simulation on the hydraulic model were used to determine the locations and sizes of the deepest scours. Final assessment of the results showed the improvement in the reduction of scouring by the proposed fortification by almost 50% in the size of the scours. The investigations and the results are described in this paper.
A Bidimensional Model of the Tagliamento River
Authors: Petti Marco , Bosa Silvia , Pascolo Sara
Published: December 2021

The propagation of a flood wave is a very challenging topic, crucial in managing the flood risk. In the literature, several numerical models have been proposed to deal with this issue; most of them need the roughness coefficients to be assigned by the operator. The bottom roughness calibration of floodplains and channels represents a key point for flood studies, because it can heavily influence the results of any kind of numerical simulation. In this study, a numerical model is applied to the Tagliamento River, in North-East Italy. One of the main characteristics of this river is its natural environment, which changes from a very wide braided channel in the middle course to a narrow meandering river moving towards the sea. This makes the bed roughness extremely variable along the river, with different kind of vegetation, braiding, different grain size, meandering, etc. In this regard, particular care should be devoted to the roughness coefficient attribution and calibration. In the present paper, we present the detailed step of calibration and validation of a bidimensional numerical model on the Tagliamento River. A novel method to assign and calibrate roughness coefficient is introduced. Finally, the model is validated against two main flood events occurred in 1966 and 1996.
Transportation Network Spatial Analysis to Measure Pedestrian Suitability. The Case of Hilly Cities
Authors: Nogueira André , Santos Bertha , Gonçalves Jorge , Kempa Jan , Chmielewski Jacek
Published: December 2021

The current climate and environmental emergency, together with the growing traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas, make mobility and its sustainability a priority in current transport policies. It is essential to change citizen’s behaviour in order to increase the use of less pollutant, economic and egalitarian transport modes, such as walking, combining it with other public transport modes. For this change to happen, it is necessary to provide feasible alternatives to private cars, namely through the offer of high-quality pedestrian infrastructures, adapted to the cities’ specific characteristics and their citizen’s needs. These aspects are particularly important in hilly cities, where traveling by foot requires an additional effort. The present study aims to contribute to the promotion of soft mobility in hilly cities by creating a support instrument to assess the potential of existing pedestrian infrastructures. Three variables are considered in the analysis: trip generation poles, population density and pedestrian network characteristics, with especial consideration of slopes. These variables were processed with spatial and network analysis tools available in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and combined using a multi-criteria decision analysis to obtain a measure of the pedestrian infrastructure potential. The identification of areas with high pedestrian potential supports the definition of priority intervention programs on the public space and a better allocation of human and financial resources. The proposed instrument was validated through its application to a case study, the hilly city of Covilhã (Portugal). From the results obtained it is possible to conclude that the variable with more impact on the pedestrian infrastructure suitability value is the location of the trip generation poles, influenced by the footpaths’ longitudinal slopes. The instrument also allowed to identify the city’s main expansion areas, corresponding to places presenting a good pedestrian potential and relatively low values of population density.
Performance Prediction of Fine-Grained Asphalt Concretes with Different Quarry Fillers by Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Baldo Nicola , Miani Matteo , Rondinella Fabio , Vacková Pavla , Valentin Jan
Published: December 2021

In general terms, an artificial neural network is a distributed processor that consists of elementary computational units interconnected. Such structure is inspired by the functioning principles of the biological nervous system and has proven to be effective in identifying complex relationships between an assigned input features vector and an experimental- investigated target vector for any scientific problem. The current paper represents a forward feasibility study on predicting the mechanical response of asphalt concretes prepared with different quarry fillers used as alternatives for traditional limestone filler or portland cement by Machine Learning approaches which consider the chemical properties of the selected fillers and the quarry aggregate types as input variables. In fact, the case study involved several fillers and stone aggregates that were used to produce Marshall specimens of a specific fine-grained asphalt concretes designed originally for the assessment of filler suitability in terms of adhesion phenomenon. The asphalt concrete variants had the same material composition and mix design: all specimens were compacted by 2x50 blows using impact compactor, filler content was fixed at 10% by mass of the mix, the grading curve is roughly the same, the employed bitumen has a 160/220 penetration grade and is about 6% by mass of the mix. The mineralogical composition was investigated by X-ray fluorescence spectrophotometry tests. It represents a non-destructive laboratory analysis that allowed to specify and compare the main oxides composition associated with the employed natural fillers to be identified. Based on the results thus obtained and applying a categorical variable that distinguishes the stone aggregate type, a neural model has been developed that can predict the stiffness modulus of asphalt mixtures: therefore, this study presents a possible procedure for the development of predictive models that can help or improve the mix design process, when different fillers and stone aggregates are available.
Enhancing resilience in a post-industrial city through the urban regeneration of the downtown district. A case study of part of downtown Lodz called Nowa Dzielnica
Authors: Tomczak Anna Aneta , Krzysztofik Sylwia
Published: December 2021

Lodz is a post-industrial city in central Poland, the third largest in terms of population and with the largest area of downtown districts in the country. The regeneration of historical districts is one of the main challenges of the local urban policy here, as in many other post-industrial cities. Urban regeneration is understood as cohesive changes implemented in terms of social, economic and spatial conditions on degraded areas, according to mechanisms introduced by the Urban Renewal Act. Another consideration is climate change, which requires an in-depth approach to design objectives so that they include certain solutions increasing the city’s resilience to climatic events. In accordance with the European Union’s policy, in 2013, the Polish Council of Ministers adopted the Strategic Adaptation Plan for sectors and areas sensitive to climate changes until 2020, looking forward to 2030. The implementation of this plan was entrusted to the Ministry of the Environment, in partnership with 44 cities with a population of over 100,000 residents, including Lodz. The city’s adaptation plan to climate changes until 2030 indicates that the most vulnerable areas of the city are those of high-intensity residential development. These areas are particularly vulnerable to the phenomena of urban heat islands, urban flooding, storms, and smog. The article shows the planning assumptions for the part of the centre called Nowa Dzielnica (New District). It is an interesting example of implementing local spatial policy at district scale, but also on a much larger scale than usually adopted in local plans. The Nowa Dzielnica downtown section was described in a sequence of four local land use plans. This constitutes an example of spatial management at local government level, which may define the direction of changes for downtown districts in other post-industrial cities. It serves as a good example of implementing changes for centres where both urban regeneration and resilience urban planning constitute important elements of urban policy.
Use of Wood Waste as Aggregate in Mortars: An Experimental Study
Authors: Baltazar Luis G.
Published: December 2021

The construction sector is one of the largest and most active in the world economy, being responsible for consumption of huge amounts of natural resources. Natural sand and gravel are the most important resources in construction, they are mainly used as aggregates, and its extraction often causes environmental damages. Bearing these considerations in mind, the wood waste has been used as partial replacement of natural sand in concrete and mortars to reduce the environmental burden of natural sand extraction. The aim of this paper is to characterize the physical and mechanical properties of natural hydraulic lime-based mortars proportioned with different percentages of wood wastes (0% to 30%) as replacement of natural sand. Thus, several specimens of mortar proportioned with wood wastes have been subjected to different experimental procedures, such as: workability, mechanical strength, water absorption and thermal conductivity. Results obtained showed that the incorporation of wood waste causes a reduction of mechanical resistance mostly due to the increase in open porosity, but on the other hand the thermal conductivity presents an improvement up to 83%. The results obtained are quite acceptable and encouraging for the follow-up studies using wood wastes as fine aggregate in mortars and, simultaneously, to improve the energy efficiency of buildings since this waste material contributes to obtain mortars with improved thermal performance.
Analysis of functional program of the building designed for pupils on the autism spectrum disorder, case study of Acland Burghley Resources Centre, London
Authors: Mentel Klaudyna , Bujniewicz Zbyszko
Published: December 2021

The article is a case study for Acland Burghley Resources Centre designed by Christopher Beaver and GA Architects for up to 20 pupils on the autism spectrum disorder. This is the inclusive regular school for 1265 students in London, built in 2011. The small part of the building was designed according to the theory developed by Beaver for students on ASD. The school was classified in third place according to Autism ASPECTSS Scores (Mostafa, 2015, p. 67) developed by Magda Mostafa, professor at the American University of Cairo. The case study is based on the diagrams presented in the article which were prepared on the basis of project documentation and photos of the building provided by the architectural office. These materials were prepared to survey opinions of autism therapists on the impact of individual building elements on people on ASD. Pupils on the autism spectrum have problems with the perception of many stimuli such as light, acoustic, aromatic, and tactile stimuli. It is important that autistic students who cannot cope with the mainstream school have an independent part of the building with the outdoor decking, social area, learning spaces, 1 to 1 activity rooms, seating spots, and escape personal spaces. The architect designed a calm space in which students feel sensory comfort and can improve their cognitive abilities. These were achieved with indirect light, neutral colours, matte textures, and curved walls. The interdisciplinary research proves that the functional and spatial solutions which are provided in Burghley Resources Centre are appropriate for the therapeutic purpose and support the therapy.
Stochastic-Based Reliability Analysis of Stainless-Steel Beams Under Bending
Authors: Puklický Libor
Published: December 2021

The presented article studies the bending resistance of a stainless steel hot-rolled profile UPE 80, which is stressed by bending around the minor principal axis. Resistance is studied as the random output variable, which is a function of input material and geometric characteristics. The paper deals with the stochastic analysis of this static resistance. The computational model is created on the basis of the finite element method using geometric and materially nonlinear solution. The Ansys software with 4-node Shell 181 element is used. The input random variables of the stainless steel are taken from previous research aimed at identifying the material mechanical properties based on experimental research of austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel 1.4307/AISI 304 L. Statistical analysis is performed using the Latin Hypercube Sampling method. The probability of achieving standard design resistance is estimated and compared with the reliability level in standard EN1990 given by the reliability factor beta 3.8. The article discusses the need for a larger number of samples for reliable estimates of design resistances and for the verification of partial reliability factors, which are a challenge for further research.
Water Conservation in Nepal
Authors: McDonald Shannon Sanders , Sharma Monica
Published: December 2021

Since the last decade, Kathmandu has been immensely crowded by many populations migrating from different places. One of the significant issues in Kathmandu valley today is water management. Nepal is considered the second most prosperous country for water in the world. Despite this, 8.4% of the population of Nepal (2015) do not have access to safe drinking water. Nepal has a high annual rainfall of 1200 millimeters but still faces substantial challenges in ensuring water security. The primary purpose of the new design for the Sport and Recreation Centre project is to conserve the water by reuse, recycling, and systematic utilization of water to create a sustainable water-efficient building and site. The research literature indicates the feasible way to fulfil water needs is by using rainwater harvesting systems in the center. Nepal historically has had rajkulos, canals, human-made ponds and sunken water conduits which are among the oldest techniques of maintaining the water supply. In the Sport and Recreation Centre, historic design techniques have been combined with rain gardens, ponds for groundwater recharge, pervious pavements, and grate inlets to manage the stormwater on the site. Also, treating the greywater through the Reed Bed Treatment System can help and conserve water for the site and project. In the landscape design, specific native plants will be used that conserve water. The buildings will have low flush and composting toilets, sensor taps, rainwater collections, and use. Overall, with the conservation of water on the site and creating a water-saving building design, this can be one of the most effective ways to promote other public buildings to do the same. The people can have adequate residential drinking water. This can help to reduce the scarcity of water in society and teach us to use rainwater and greywater more efficiently in all future new projects.
A Method of Monitoring the Cross-Section Deformation of Tunnels Using the Strain Data from the Fully Distributed Optical Fibre Sensors
Authors: Ma Guohao , Zhang Shaoyi , Li Hu , Li Panshan , Liu Yang
Published: December 2021

Fully distributed optical fiber sensing technology allows the high-density strain to measure the overall curvature and cross-section deformation of tunnels. However, there are few studies on the use of longitudinal strain along the tunnel to measure the cross-section convergence deformation, and the method of obtaining the strain along the tunnel loop is costly. To address this issue, a method of monitoring the cross-section deformation of tunnels using the strain data is proposed. First, a model of the relationship between strain and deformation in tunnels is constructed to obtain the overall settlement using the longitudinal strain. Second, based on the finite element method (FEM), the deformation law about the strain measured points and non-measured points on the cross-section of the tunnel is proposed, and on this basis, the correlation coefficient is presented. Using the product of overall settlement and correlation coefficient, the cross-section deformation at non-measured points is obtained. The results of numerical examples shown that the proposed method can effectively expand the monitoring scale and realize high-density cross-section deformation measurement of tunnels.
Adaptation and Revitalization of Industrial Facilities Interiors on an Example of a Building of ‘The Old Power Plant Białystok’
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Martyna , Palus Kinga
Published: December 2021

The topic discussed in the article concerns adaptation of the interior of the Old Power Plant Bialystok building to a museum space related to transport. The justification for taking up the topic is paying attention to the unique aesthetic values of post-production elements of interior infrastructure with a view to giving them a new architectural spirit. The idea behind this issue concerns the possibility of constructing a coherent composition, showing contrasting aspects: historical and modern, relating to both museum facilities and exhibits on display. The aim is therefore to show the creation of a new public space that is an interesting alternative to classic museums. Numerous functional and spatial changes, created during many years of exploitation, lead to a kind of chaos inside buildings, which was observed on the example of the interior in question. In the era of globalization, industrial development and as a result of urban processes, the buildings that used to be centers of economic development, today have been absorbed and surrounded by urban fabric. Deserted and devoid of its original function, they deteriorate, giving the image of breaking the emotional ties with the achievements, which were a priority for our ancestors. Attention should be paid to losing the authenticity of building interiors and extracting the essence of industrial beauty, which should be emphasized in accordance with the implementation concept. Cultural heritage has not only a material but also a sentimental dimension. Creative activities within the historic structure should be carried out with full respect for the existing structure, taking into account the overriding issue, that each interference affects the original form in the existing spatial arrangement.
Drystone walls in the Algarve, Portugal. Characterization and interconnection with the geology and lithology
Authors: Feroldi Ada , Silva Elisa da , Gonçalves Marta Marçal
Published: December 2021

Drystone walls can be frequently observed along the Algarve, south region of Portugal, performing both support and property division. This region is also known by its geological diversity and, consequently, lithology, which are intimately related to the orography. The combination of all these factors allowed the proliferation of this traditional drystone walls during the last centuries, and they represent not only an important element of the landscape, but also a perspective of the social, economic and technical bases of Algarve’s heritage. This article intends to present this diversity and the relationship between its various facets. In order to achieve the objectives, several field surveys were carried out to different geological zones, with the intention of gathering information related to the natural material used and its construction technique, as well as interaction with local inhabitants. These visits were supported by bibliographic and “Web-graphic” research, to substantiate the hypotheses. Based on the data results it is possible to identify a close interconnection between the geology and wall structure typology, since they are made with the natural rock fragments (raw material) found nearby. However, its function is more related to the orogeny and lithology, the latter defining also the type of agricultural culture. The study is enriched by the enormous diversity of rock types, although the Algarve is a relatively small region. The main limitations found during the development of the study are related to the physical access to the walls and the interviews with the locals. These constrictions were due to the lack of land maintenance, allowing vegetation to growth naturally, invading and covering the walls, and also due to the pandemic situation brought by the COVID-19 virus, which interdict the interaction between persons and also the travels. Despite the restrictions mentioned, the fieldtrips gave enough data to support the correlation between the geology, lithology and the raw material used on the drystone walls, as well as their relation to the terraces that proliferate in specific areas of Algarve. In view of the scarcity of bibliographic elements associated with this subject, in the studied territory, the elaboration of documents that allow the identification, characterization, geo-location and dissemination of the object of study, is considered as an asset for this theme. Finally, the study aims to alert and counter the tendency to abandon this type of heritage, valuing it and making it known.
Analysis of construction sub-processes for the evaluation of the real performance of tower cranes
Authors: Doubek Rostislav , Hořínková Dita , Štěrba Martin , Kantová Radka
Published: December 2021

The productivity of work performed at construction sites is primarily dependent on the effective deployment and use of construction machinery. Nevertheless, manufacturers do not state the actual performance of their machinery because it is difficult to determine due to its dependence on the specific conditions present at each construction site. One of the most important machines used in the construction of buildings is the tower crane, which provides secondary transport of material onsite. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of such machines using a deterministic or stochastic approach, a relatively extensive and exact set of data describing the activities of a given tower crane needs to be prepared. These data describe the real requirements of ongoing construction sub-processes with regard to the utilisation of tower cranes. This contribution concerns the analysis of key construction sub-processes during the building of monolithic reinforced concrete structures in connection with secondary transport at the construction site; in particular, it describes the preparation and processing of this data for the evaluation of real time requirements placed on tower cranes.
A Design Approach as a Possible Organization of Public Spaces in Emergency Areas
Authors: Cattani Letizia , Moscatelli Monica
Published: December 2021

The paper tries to identify, through strategic design axes, some areas in emergency contexts to locate collective spaces serving the local population, such as schools, community centres and spaces for aggregation. These public places have the purpose of regenerating the surrounding context by improving the quality of life and above all by strengthening the identity of the place through social and cultural spaces that the community identifies as landmarks of the settlement fabric. Through the analysis of some case studies in East Africa, the research tries to highlight some infrastructural axes which to locate permanent public services by reducing the distances between inhabited areas and primary services. The aim is to link the scattered and fragmented settlements in the territory without identity, with an axis of public services that could accommodate more functions and at the same time increase their size according to the needs of the local community. A design approach allows these areas to be developed strategically with a new configuration of services along certain infrastructural axes. A well-managed and effective regeneration of these areas in emergency contexts is essential to strengthening the identity of the place. The comparison of the selected case studies could represent an opportunity to rethink the planning of services in emergency areas to provide guidelines for practitioners involved in these particular contexts. And once again the paper wants to demonstrate how an architectural approach can solve a possible organization of spaces within fragmented contexts.
Landslide mudflow behaviour: physical and numerical modelling
Authors: Cano Fredy Alexander Muñoz , Montoya César Augusto Hidalgo , Gutiérrez Johnny Alexander Vega , Obando Melissa Parra
Published: December 2021

Landslides constitute one of the natural phenomena that cause the most economic losses and deaths worldwide. After failure occurs, landslides can trigger mudflows. Understanding how mud is transported is very important in infrastructure projects that coincide with hillside areas due to the high risk of this phenomena occurring due to the high slopes, which can imply great risks and produce disasters, generating considerable costs. In this work, the evaluation of a mudflow is presented, from the execution of a scale experiment in the laboratory and its validation from numerical models, considering the material behaviour as a Newtonian fluid and as a non-Newtonian fluid. The physical model was developed using a 3m x 0.5m x 0.7m rectangular channel with dimensions, with slope control. A mud mixture composed of a silty material with 60% of moisture was tested producing a mudflow. Experimental tests were carried out with slopes of 5% and 10%. The numerical models were implemented in ANSYS FLUENT software. At first stage, the numerical model was calibrated with the results of the physical model with a slope of 5% and it was validated with the results of the model for the slope of 10%. Results of the numerical models were compared with the experimental results, and they have shown that these have a great capacity to reproduce what is observed experimentally. In addition, when the material was considerate as a Newtonian fluid, a similar behaviour was found respect to a mudflow as a non-Newtonian fluid, not finding considerable differences in the final deposition length of the flow. The simulation of mudflow, especially multiphase, using CFD is usually a complex process since the boundary conditions and physical and rheological properties of the soil must be correctly defined, considering the contribution of the solid fraction in the behaviour of the numerical model. Nevertheless, despite all the simplifications that a modelling of this type entails, the results are promising to improve the understanding of the phenomenon studied, and its application in risk assessment methodologies for mass movements and their derived effects.
Redevelopment of Huai Khwang Housing Project Responsive to Users’ Spatial Behaviors
Authors: Raksawin Karuna , Suthasupa Supagtra , Komkris Tatpong
Published: December 2021

Huai Khwang Housing is a public residential project, developed since 1972 in a fringe area of Bangkok at that time. The city has been gradually expanding, so now Huai Khwang Housing turns to be in the center of the city. There is a subway station 400 meters away from the site; therefore, the land value and potentials of this housing project has been increased. However, the physical conditions of the buildings are rather rundown since they have been utilizing for more than 50 years. The National Housing Authority of Thailand, the owner of this residence, has a plan to redevelop this housing project. The preliminary public hearing was set to inform the community about the future changes and intend to receive the opinions from the residents, who are elderlies residing in this community since it was built. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the spatial behavior of elderly residents in this housing. The methods used include interviews and observations. The results show that the housing units are used in multi-functions and the spatial requirements include storage areas, a smell-locked and partitioning cooking area, a ventilating and sun-drying area for laundry, and spaces for air-conditioning units as well as satellite discs and washing machines. It is suggested that the redevelopment housing scheme should meet these requirements.
Cities on Circular Economy: Urban Strategies based on the study of pioneering local experiences
Authors: Martínez Alberto Lloret , Salazar Nuria Nebot-Gómez de , Rosa-Jiménez Carlos
Published: December 2021

Today's society is in a critical situation: the prevailing linear model of the economy has led to an overexploitation of natural resources, and it has generated environmental impacts that affect the health of all living beings. An economic model of a cyclical nature, or circular economy, is presented as a solution in this situation. This form of economy facilitates the optimization of the useful life of materials, reducing the environmental impact, allowing products and materials to retain their value throughout the production and use cycle. The main purpose of this work is to identify urban strategies carried out by local experiences in pioneering cities that are actively committed to the development of a circular economy as an economic model of society. Cases such as Amsterdam, London, Paris or Milan stand out. The ultimate goal is to show examples that can inspire other cities and local governments to implement measures towards this new model of economy and urban development. The study of local cases throughout the strategies carried out has made possible to establish relationships between the different experiences analysed and to identify the areas with the greatest development and those in which there is less experience. Efficient waste management is one of the most explored areas and where a greater number of local initiatives have been identified. But alongside this, there are other areas that need to be explored: the efficient management of water resources, energy, or food in the city. In response to these, some urban strategies stand out: regeneration of public spaces, sustainable mobility infrastructures, renaturation of urban environments, urban limits, integration of pre-existences, citizen participation and governance are some of them. The contribution of the work focuses on the identification and classification of a whole series of urban strategies already implemented for their possible transfer to other environments.
Optimizing Bidding Strategy of the Roadway Projects – An Application of Utility Function Theory
Authors: Chen Wei Tong , Liem Ferdinan Nikson , Chen Tai-Jung , Bria Theresia Avila
Published: December 2021

The "A+B" bid method is determined by the lowest combined bid. Contractors must greatly shorten construction time to be able to win bidding competitions. However, the risk under the shortened duration of construction increased rapidly. For this reason, it is important to propose a bidding strategy to acquire the best composition of construction cost and time. This research targeted contractors with a questionnaire regarding A+B bidding in Taiwan by applied “Utility Function Theory” to construct a decision model of the best construction cost and time. It was found that the optimal profit regressed from the modified utility function differs from contractors’ preliminary bids. In the situation that the difference in basic profits is not large, contractors can set up a decision maker’s utility function based on their ability to take a risk and simulate the major competitors based on experience to judge the potential success and risk from shortening the construction time.
Global Sensitivity Analysis of Ultimate Limit States of Stainless Steel Structural Members
Authors: Omishore Abayomi
Published: December 2021

The article presents global Sobol sensitivity analysis of a rolled member in tension made from austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel of type 1.4307/AISI 304 L. The statistical characteristics of yield strength and of the geometry of the rolled steel IPE cross-section are presented on the basis of published experimental research. The sensitivity analysis showed the dominant effect of the yield strength on the static resistance. The second dominant variable is the flange thickness. Higher-order sensitivity indices oriented at detecting the presence of interaction effects between input variables are very small. The characteristics of other types of sensitivity analyses oriented at quantiles or the probability of failure are discussed, especially in terms of a higher proportion of higher-order sensitivity indices. The results of Sobol sensitivity analysis of stainless steel are compared with similar results of carbon steels.
Functional Performance Evaluation of Hospital Radiology Facilities and Equipment Using FA and AHP: A Case Study
Authors: Chen Wei Tong , Bria Theresia Avila , Shih-An Hsieh , Liem Ferdinand
Published: December 2021

Result of evaluates the usage function at radiology facilities and equipment based on the professional opinions of radiology department relevant medical personnel in Taiwan, using of factor analysis (FA), analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and simple weight method is : The among the four evaluation dimensions for the usage function evaluation model of radiology facilities and equipment, the safety equipment dimension is far more important than the other so that needs to be improved (The total number of institutions, whose evaluation score falling below the dimension average value, are 9, 4, 7 and 5, respectively). Of the 17 medical institutions, the overall performance of the best (90.95) and the worst (61.47) the gap between is up to 47%.