bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation Road Surface Temperature Variation Using Commercial Vehicle Ambient Sensor
Authors: Yang Choongheon , Yun Dukgeun , Kim Jinguk , Shin Sungpil
Published: September 2019

Road surface temperature is more important than ambient temperature in term of road safety during winter season. The conventional method to collect road surface temperature is to install Road Weather Station(RWS). However RWS can only collect spot information and could be costly. To enhance these problem, this study used the commercial vehicle ambient temperature(VAT) sensors can collect the pattern of air temperature along the road effectively and rapidly. Also the thermal mapping equipment was used to collect the road surface temperature(RST). After that, our research analysed the similarity of the patterns of road surface and ambient temperatures using correlation analysis. The result showed that the patterns of temperature variation collected from VAT sensors are statistically comparable to patterns of road surface temperature variation collected from a thermal mapping. In addition, this research developed a way to segment roadway based on variation in road surface temperature. This segmentation is useful to road authorities for managing the road and providing information based on road segmentation. Although VAT sensors do not provide highly accurate temperature readings, they can identify patterns of surface road temperature on roadway sections. This study found out that the VAT can be estimated the patterns of RST and could be replace the road weather station or thermal mapping system. This information can be used so that individual drivers, commercial vehicle and fleet operators and road authorities acquire critical real-time information on road conditions. Further, using these sensors instead of fixed sensors or thermal mapping can significantly reduce road maintenance costs. Also the result could be applied to the automated driving system to provide the road surface condition in the future.
Paving the Way to NZEB on two Historical Blocks in Lisbon Pombaline Quarter
Authors: Duarte Carlos , Morais Antonio
Published: September 2019

The 1758 Lisbon Pombaline Quarter reconstruction plan is made of compact rectangular shaped residential blocks, built with a system that complies solid mass construction elements with a light wooden structure. If we take into consideration both constructive and architectural inherent features of the original Pombaline block, it shows the potential to achieve NZEB level if an energy retrofit strategy at a block scale is implemented, instead of the usual single building or fraction approach. The retrofit of historic buildings has raised questions regarding interventions depth and efficiency, as the impact on the built heritage value has to be residual or null while energy-related improvements must be noticeable. With this in mind, this paper intends to analyse and compare the result on energy demand and primary energy consumption of passive, active and BIST/PV systems packages implementation on two original blocks, with the challenge of minimizing the impact on case studies appearance. A Building Energy Simulation methodology is applied using the whole-of-building dynamic simulation software EnergyPlus. The results show that exterior envelope improvements can reduce up to 50% heating and cooling energy demands increasing thermal comfort at the same time. Finally, a combined VRF/Biomass heating solution display the best results on primary energy consumption while photovoltaic and solar thermal systems proved to have an essential role to achieve NZEB performance.
Sustainable Conservation of Cultural Landscape and Changing Values around Haci Bayram Mosque and Augustus Temple, Ankara, Turkey
Authors: Aytekin Oznur
Published: September 2019

Urban transformation is the overall strategy and action set out to improve the physical, economic, social and environmental conditions of an urban space with comprehensive and integrated approaches, taking into account urban issues and needs. Urban design and transformation is that of understanding or application in the multi-dimensionality of the projected core reason of the actors present in the urban renewal applications. In Ankara, Ulus Historic Center, since the past ten years, Urban Regeneration and Urban Renewal expressions and applications affect the content and the legal platform of protection of cultural heritage areas. Through this development, conservation based improvement approach that evaluated in “Urban Revitalization” and the Renewal approach that prefered for cultural heritage areas which become dilapidated urban tissues interfere with each other. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the Ankara, “Sustainable Conservation of Cultural Landscape And Changing Values Around Haci Bayram Mosque And Augustus Temple” in the context of “Sustainable Historic Environment Protection” around Ulus Historical Center. Historical and cultural memory loss has occurred with applications such as demolition of facade structures facing the Haci Bayram Mosque, enlargement of the last community place of the glass, construction of women parth underneath, construction of multi-storey car park by digging the mound, and filling the periphery with false historical artifacts.
The Students’ Competition for the Interior Design of Paediatric Department of the City Hospital: Methodology of a Pre-Design Research and Project Describing
Authors: Winnicka-Jaslowska Dorota
Published: September 2019

The following article presents a manner of conducting academic competitions as an example of a cooperation formed between a university and public institutions in the scope of the process of education. The academic competition for the internal design and visual identification of the WSS paediatric ward in Rybnik, carried out in April 2018 at the Faculty of Architecture of the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice came into existence as a result of cooperation between the Specialist Hospital in Rybnik and the Faculty of Architecture at the Silesian University of Silesia. The Competition was organized by employees: the head of the paediatric department, the hospital’s management and the representatives of the Faculty of Architecture under the leadership of Assoc.Prof. Dr. Eng. Arch. Dorota Winnicka-Jasłowska (Vice Dean for Student Affairs at the Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology - an initiator of the competition and the main organizer). The design task was to devise a conception for the interior as well as prepare visual information for the paediatric department which must be subject to renovation. Actions connected with the organization of the competition, described in the article, as well as the presentation of the final effects are an example of diversified initiatives: on the one hand, they are the result of a cooperation struck between the university and the social surrounding (in this case the health care facility), on the other hand, they constitute an exchange of experiences between students who major in architecture and interior design and the participants coming from the designed space – employees of the paediatric department. Assumptions of the competition gave character to the actions completed by the students, with extra importance attached to skills in team work as well as acquisition of knowledge on user preferences as well as their functional abilities. In the case of designs made for users such as children, this is of key importance in the making of a user friendly space.
The Proposal of Determining the Focal Length of a Non-Metric Digital Camera for UAV
Authors: Hlotov Volodymyr , Marusazh Khrystyna , Siejka Zbigniew
Published: September 2019

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle - UAV, commonly referred to as drones are vehicles unique in the field of mechanics that can fly in the air without a human operator on board. In recent years, they have become a new interdisciplinary area of science and research. Because they combine photogrammetry, aviation engineering, navigation and automation. Modern UAVs are synchronized with GNSS signals and are remotely piloted or carry out autonomous flights. They can simultaneously perform very complex operations for the implementation of many different civil and military tasks. Currently, drones play an increasingly important role in the modern battlefield and are therefore included in the equipment of all modern world armies. They also find a great potential in civil applications. They are used in many fields of economy, technology and science. Acquiring geoinformation from unmanned aerial vehicles is currently used in the work of many services related to the functioning of the state. In the geomatics, the UAV platforms equipped with specialized sensors, are used to acquire images and photogrammetric and remote sensing data. Photogrammetric projections made by UAV are currently used to generate orthophotomaps, among others for the needs of cadastre. As we know, cadastral measurements, due to their importance, require high accuracy and reliability. They can only be guaranteed by correctly and precisely determined calibration parameters of non-metric cameras. The paper presents a method of determination of the focal length, of a digital non-metric photogrammetric camera. The experimental tests carried out confirmed the usefulness of the proposed calibration method carried out in laboratory conditions.
Base isolation fibre-reinforced composite bearings using recycled rubber
Authors: Sengsri Pasakorn , Rosaria Marsico Maria , Kaewunruen Sakdirat
Published: September 2019

In the past few years, there have been a number of previous researches on the rubber isolators for resisting earthquakes. A typical bearing consists of natural rubber sheets and bonded to steel plates. For an application of using rubber bearings, numerous isolated buildings have been constructed to resist an earthquake across the countries which experience earthquakes over decades. Another application might be used in the bridge structures of railways and highways, in order to suppress vibrations and dynamic actions. The key idea is to use rubber isolators attached beneath the superstructures for attenuating the damage potential of seismic responses. This means that the rubber provides the isolators flexible in the horizontal direction and the steel makes them strong in the vertical direction. Anyways, most bearings are made of natural rubber or synthetic compound. These materials are costly and cannot be durable over time. This paper aims to develop a new design of bearing using recycled materials and fibre reinforcement. The concept is to design two models using the finite element method (FEM) as a square and circular shape for the investigation into the static and dynamic behaviour. Through, the finite element method will be conducted to evaluate structural response and effectiveness of the novel low-cost bearing. Bearing models from the analytical method based on the theory are verified by the FEM. The overall results show that the fibre square model is less effective than the fibre circular model due to the different shape factors, S. The outcome of this project will help to enable more eco-friendly bearing materials for structural, highway and railway engineers. However, a further study of designing recycled rubber bearings with the fibre-reinforced polymer should be carried out by experimental tests. The study should be also compared with the performance between the fibre and steel bearing model, in order to verify the models created by FEA more effectively.
Vertical Gardens in High-Rise Buildings – Modern Form of Green Building Technology
Authors: Golasz-Szolomicka Hanna , Szolomicki Jerzy
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the analysis of vertical gardens in selected high-rise buildings located on different continents as an example of the most popular greenery system in contemporary architecture. High-rise buildings designed in the form of vertical garden, use the urban space more effectively and at the same time create a friendlier environment for their residents. In developing large metropolises, these buildings constitute a very important element in design which compensates for the lack of green areas. The first vertical gardens in the form of a system of green walls in buildings were created in the late 30s of the twentieth century. Their inventor was Stanley Hart White. However, a professor of Landscape Architecture at the University of Illinois. However, in tall buildings, these gardens were begun by Patric Blanc in 1994, and then continued by Stefan Boeri. With the development of green wall technology, two general systems have appeared: green walls and living walls. Many of the studies conducted in the world have shown significant environmental and social benefits from the use of vertical gardens in high-rise buildings, despite their significant economic costs. In the presented paper, the green wall system has been characterized on the example of some high-rise buildings, pointing at the determination of benefits from their occurrence in the urban scale as well in the scale of the building.
Road safety in Poland Three Years After Limiting the Number of Speed Controls
Authors: Chmielewski Jacek
Published: September 2019

Road safety is one of the key elements of every citizen’s life. Every day journeys connected with professional and educational activity force us to do a trip, and this leads to inevitable conflicts between road users. One of the basic methods of assessing the state of road safety, and the effects of legal, educational and infrastructural activities of authorities, are the results of road incidents analyses, accidents and collisions, as well as the effects of these activities in previous years. Police databases carried out in most countries on a continuous basis, store records of road incidents in which Police officers intervened. Undoubtedly the speed is one of the most important element affecting the number and consequences of road incidents. High speed reduces the time necessary for the driver to react correctly to the traffic situation. The high speed increases the momentum, and thus the effects of road accidents. Changes in the scope of speed control of vehicles in Poland, including those entitled to do it, introduced 3 years ago, could significantly affect the state of road safety in Poland, on the network of urban and non-urban roads. This paper presents the results of road safety analyses for both nationally and more locally road networks - for the biggest cities in Poland. Based on the analysis of data from the Police’s database records, it has been shown that since the introduction of legal changes, the number of road incidents on the road network has increased significantly. It also indicates unfavourable trends in the area of road safety in cities. Based on the above analyses the need for action to introduce a new program for road safety improvement, especially at the level of urban areas, is indicated.
Process for The Parameterization of a Soil Erosion Model Based on a Small Rainfall Simulator
Authors: Nemetova Zuzana , Danacova Michaela
Published: September 2019

Soil erosion due to water is an extensive problem in many countries, especially accelerated erosion, where the natural rate has significantly increased in the most recent period. Its extent impacts on land management practices and is the main factor causing soil degradation. Rainfall simulators are very popular as a standard instrument to conduct research on topics such as soil erosion, infiltration or surface runoff. They are used in laboratory or field experiments in erosion studies to assess the impacts of changes in the tillage management with regard to the erodibility of soil. Results of the experiments can be used in the modelling of surface runoff and sediment transport by hydrological models. This study presents the results of experimental measurements of surface runoff made by an artificial rainfall on an experimental plot. The artificial rainfall was generated using a small rainfall simulator, which allows changes in rainfall intensity and duration. The object of this study was analysed after the surface runoff occurred and the weight of the soil particles was transported from the experimental plot. These results have been used to determine the soil input parameters for the physically-based EROSION-2D model and for the verification of the model parameters. The EROSION-2D model represents a physically and event-based approach for the prediction of soil loss and runoff. The model only requires eight soil input parameters. Some of those parameters can be easily obtained by classic and widely-used methods (soil analyses, terrain measurements, soil map evaluations), and other parameters can be determined from rainfall experiments which represent the main aim of the study. The rainfall intensity has been set at 5 mm/min with 20 minutes of simulated rain, and it corresponded to an intensity with a return period of 100 years. During the experiment a continuous course of the surface runoff and soil moisture was recorded. The results from the simulations were applied to simulate the soil erosion processes in the physically-based EROSION-2D model. For the parametrization of the model, artificial rainfall events were used with an intensity of 2.7 mm/min and rain durations of 12 and 13 minutes. The parametrization of such models represents a necessary and significant part of any scientific work. The experimental results show that outputs from the rainfall simulations can be reproduced successfully, and, based on the results, the process of determining the model´s parameters can be successfully performed.
The Impact of Bitumen Roofing Production Waste (BTw) on Physical Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Vaiciene Marija , Malaiskiene Jurgita , Mobili Alessandra , Tittarelli Francesca
Published: September 2019

This article presents how concrete properties would change if part of a coarse aggregate (granite crushed stone) were replaced with bitumen roofing production waste (BTw). BTw is a huge ecological problem because these wastes are generated in large quantities when replacing old bitumen-based roof tiles. Wastes are also produced during the production of bituminous roof coatings. Usually BTw are stored in landfills or it is attempted to use/dispose them in the production of asphalt concrete. There are very few works which analyse the impact of BTw on the properties of cement materials, although the impact of these wastes on the properties of cement materials could be beneficial because BTw consist of aggregate, granules, bitumen and fibers. In order to use BTw, standard concrete samples were first formed, then 5/16 granite fraction was replaced with BTw in amounts of 2%, 4% and 6% by weight The amounts of limestone Portland cement, fine aggregate (sand), water and superplasticizer in the concrete mixtures were constant. The new generation of superplasticizer based on polycarboxylates was used in mixtures. The following concrete properties were identified and analyzed: density of the mixture, flowability, density of concrete samples, water absorption, compressive strength, forecasted frost resistance, and microstructure studies were conducted as well. The results of the studies showed that BTw can be used in small amounts, i. e. up to 6%, then the density of the samples slightly decreased (by 2.4%) and water absorption increased (by 0.7%). Compressive strength, after replacing 2% granite crushed stone, decreased by 2.4%. However, gradual addition of the amount of BTw resulted in more closed pores that improved the frost resistance of the concrete. When 6% of bulk filler was replaced with BTw, closed porosity, compared to control samples, increased by 54% and forecasted frost resistance - by 26%. Microstructure analysis showed that with 6% BTw a dense cement stone structure was formed, showing the hydrates of portlandite and CSH.
Consideration of Soil Temperature in the Modeling of Early-Age Mass Concrete Slab
Authors: Zmij Aneta , Klemczak Barbara , Azenha Miguel , Schlicke Dirk
Published: September 2019

Modeling the structural behavior of concrete at early ages is one of the most challenging, yet fundamental, tasks for civil engineers working on mass concrete. To obtain a reasonably accurate model, a number of factors should be taken into account. Considerations should include both external influences as well as the changes occurring in the complex structure itself. The modeling of an early-age concrete massive slab requires the proper assignment of initial conditions, including the initial temperature of the analyzed element and the adjacent structures. The temperature distribution in the subsoil is the factor analyzed in this paper. The aim of the study is the determination of the temperature distribution in the ground, which is useful in the process related to the acquisition of the most accurate model of the analyzed structure and reflects the actual conditions in the numerical model. For this purpose, the analytical method described in the literature was applied and subsequently evaluated on the basis of the numerical calculation. The performed calculations allow the estimation of the depth representing the range of the influence of the temperature in the ground and the values of the temperatures corresponding to the successive layers of the subsoil. Moreover, aiming the optimization of the numerical analysis of the massive foundation slab, the legitimacy of such detailed consideration of the temperature development in the underlying subsoil was evaluated by the comparison with the temperature distribution in the slab obtained with simplified consideration of the constant soil temperature.
Validation of Elastic-Brittle, and Elastic-Plastic FEM Model of the Wall Made of Calcium Silicate and AAC Masonry Units
Authors: Jasinski Radoslaw
Published: September 2019

Numerous methodologies can be used in numerical analyses of masonry structures. In the engineering applications which allow current design standards linear elastic material models are used. On the other hand, when it comes to the analysis of morphology of cracking and the failure mechanism that form the basis of scientific studies, the choice of use falls on the advanced material models implemented in masonry micro-, macro- or mezo-models taking into account the fragile properties of masonry based on the Coulomb’s ideas. The Drucker-Prager, Hofman, Willam-Warnke, Barcelona and the Menétrey-Willam (M-W-3) models are used, among others. All advanced material models require the introduction of many mechanical parameters, the determination of which may pose many problems. Many authors use their own test methods, so it is not possible to repeat calculations. The paper presents the author’s method of validating numerical masonry models using standard research models and procedures. The elastic - brittle material model (SBeta) and the elastic - plastic model of Menétrey – Willam (M-W-3). The basic material parameters of masonry units and interface elements were determined in the tests of specimens of masonry units’ elements or wall specimens. The validation was carried out in the ATENA FEM system using a 2D model of the wall axially and diagonally compressed. The cracking of the wall, values of elastic modulus and destructive stresses as well as the course of the load-displacement dependence were compared.
Seismic Assessment and Retrofit Design of a School Building in Florence
Authors: Terenzi Gloria , Bazzani Caterina , Costoli Iacopo , Sorace Stefano , Spinelli Paolo
Published: September 2019

The recent earthquakes occurred in Italy highlighted again the high vulnerability of structures built before the release of national Seismic Standards. This induced several local authorities to undertake extensive performance assessment campaigns of public buildings, among which mainly schools. A study carried out within one of these campaigns, concerning the evaluation of seismic vulnerability and the design of retrofit interventions in a school building in Florence, is presented herein. The structure was built at the beginning of 1970s, and is characterized by a ground storey with reinforced concrete frame skeleton, and a first and second storey with steel structure. An extensive on-site experimental investigation was developed at a first step of the study, which allowed identifying the mechanical characteristics of the constituting materials, and re-drawing the main structural details. Based on these data, a check of the seismic performance in current conditions was carried out, which highlighted several drawbacks, especially concerning the steel members. This prompted to propose a seismic retrofit hypothesis of the building, consisting in the installation of a set of dissipative braces incorporating fluid viscous dampers as protective devices. A synthesis of the assessment analyses in current conditions and the retrofit design, which allows attaining an elastic structural response up to the maximum considered earthquake level, is reported in the paper.
The Current Features of the Central Public Space Functioning in the Historical City, A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Authors: Cherkes Bohdan , Fedak Anna , Shtendera Andrii
Published: September 2019

A common feature of the significant squares in historical cities is the contradiction between the problems of protection and functioning. A striking example of such a contradiction is the Rynok Square in Lviv - public space, which since its appearance in the 14th century, has always been a communicative hub for citizens and guests of the city. In 1998, the central part of Lviv was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and only 15 years later, the entrance of private vehicles to the Rynok Square was restricted, making the central square again a public space. Since then, there is no data on the use of square as a public space. Qualitative changes in the functioning of the city square are visible to the naked eye, but it is difficult to assess the scale and vector of these changes without a detailed study. For a comprehensive understanding of the Rynok Square public space functioning and the level of its socialization, we have developed a methodology for evaluating the quantitative characteristics of the social and cultural aspects of the urban environment. From October to December 2018, a pilot study of the interaction of people with institutions and spaces of the Rynok Square was conducted. The survey data gives us an understanding of the current state of using the Rynok Square as a public space, so it might be a good basis for further sociological and economic research. This will allow us to more detailed study to the issues of organizing new public, cultural or service establishments, and the creation of potential spaces for communication. Due to this data, we can speak about behavioral tendencies of residents and visitors of the historical city, which will allow to qualitatively improve the spaces for their future use.
Shopping Centre vs. Railway Station. Selected Examples in Poland
Authors: Labuz Rita
Published: September 2019

A modern shopping centre is often built as a multi-functional facility. It constitutes a place that generates the customer traffic, and consequently a demand for a relatively big number of parking spaces. A characteristic group of shopping centres are facilities erected in the vicinity of transport hubs, combining different means of transport. This study focuses on the shopping centres located near the railway stations. The railway station and the shopping centre are examples of buildings which fulfil different functions, and yet Poland has seen more and more projects combining these two types of facilities. This paper attempts to determine the influence of the shopping centre integrated with the railway station onto the functions and significance of the railway station building. It also touches upon the aspect of accessibility of the individual structures, particularly to pedestrians. Two shopping centres are considered herein within the scheme of the comparative analysis: “Galeria Krakowska” in Cracow and “Avenida” in Poznan. Both facilities came into being as parts of the construction of the new transport centres located near the main passenger railway stations in both cities. These areas are located in inner cities or nearby, which makes them the potential representational venues. In the result of the study, a tendency to the design shopping centres directly combined with a railway station, e.g. via passages with service outlets, has been observed. It seems that the railway station ceases to be a fully independent structure. In Cracow, it is located underneath the railway platforms, constituting a connector between the shopping centre and the coach station. In Poznan, the railway station is located above some of the railway stations and is linked with the “Avenida” shopping centre via a shopping passage. It has been observed that in both cases it is difficult to separate, both spatially and visually, the new railway station building from the building of the shopping centre, which seems to make the shopping centre take over the function of the edifice of the railway station, welcoming and bidding farewell to passengers. The building of the shopping centre in a way becomes the railway station building. The function of the transport hub, combining different means of transport, does not always entail comfortable pedestrian accessibility. For example in Poznan, some of the railway platforms are not accessible directly from the buildings of the railway station or the shopping centre. Furthermore, this paper points to the impact of such investments on the intended use of former railway station buildings. It has been observed that the adaptation of all the railway station buildings to the new functions in the examples referred to above took place several years after they had been closed down. The Author emphasises the need to determine the future use of old and often historic railway station buildings already at the stage of the investment planning.
Effect of Recycled Aggregates on Previous Concrete Properties
Authors: Seddik Meddah Mohammed , Al Oraimi Maryam , Wahid Hago Abdul , Al Jabri Khalifa
Published: September 2019

Portland cement Pervious Concrete (PCPC) is a special type of concrete characterized by a highly connected pore system that allows water from different sources to infiltrate through to recharge the ground water. This paper present selected results on the key mechanical and hydrological performances of pervious concrete designed with different recycled aggregates from various sources and materials types. Seven pervious concrete mixes containing different recycled materials in addition to a control mix, were optimized and tested in terms their mechanical and hydrological properties. The results obtained indicate acceptable mechanical properties of the designed PCPC with an appropriate water penetrability depending on the granular system and compaction effort employed. Among these optimized mixes, selected mixes meeting strength and permeability requirement for a PCPC could be used in some common flat applications as an efficient drainage system. Potential use of these pervious concrete optimized mixes based on recycled materials includes but not limited to sidewalk, pavement in low traffic area, parking lots in regions known by heavy rainfall, floor for car washing stations, etc.
What matters in housing architecture – a survey of dwellers’ opinions
Authors: Lasiewicz-Sych Angelika
Published: September 2019

This paper presents results of a questionnaire survey designed to study the most valued features of the housing environment in dwellers’ opinion. The subjects were inhabitants (aged 13 to 81, N = 470) of various housing environments in Poland (including blockhouses in the largest cities of the country, comfortable suburban villas, as well as small rural houses). Concluding the results, the most important physical elements of housing environment seem to be: location, plan and area of the flat, specific features of home spaces such as natural light, stylish arrangement and technical quality. Most valued elements of immediate surroundings depend primarily on type of the building; one-family house inhabitants value the most private area elements – such as garden, while city tenement house and multi-family block inhabitants value rather functional elements in public zone – such as shops and basic services. Location (understood primarily in relation to the city centre) is very important for residents of big cities and students. The apartment plan and its correspondence with functionality is especially valued by more educated people (specifically those professionally dealing with architecture); the size of the flat and the immediate surroundings are in turn more valued by less educated people employed in basic services. Impact of architectural features that are important in appraisal of the housing environment (also attractive views and appearance of the building) are balanced by social and psychological aspects of home space, such as home atmosphere, privacy and social relations inside the home (relations with other residents within the perceived home space) and in the immediate neighbourhood (good neighbours). Together with architectural and technical quality of the house, they constitute the home environment that may be source of satisfaction to their inhabitants.
Proposed Model for Enhancing Performances of Small Projects in Small Island States – Case Study of the Republic of Mauritius
Authors: Seeboo Asish , Proag Viren
Published: September 2019

In this study the sources and causes of poor performances on small residential building projects, within the island of Mauritius, were used to devise a model that would enhance success on such types of construction ventures. The model was initially tested and refined. During the observational studies, 18 houses were observed within various districts around the island. Throughout the investigation, no two houses were constructed by the same builder/labour contractor or team of workers. For the validation of the proposed system, the same 18 teams were contacted. However, to form part of the selection list, the following criteria were mandatory: (i) the Builder/Contractor had to be agreeable to follow the proposed framework and, as per the previous endeavour, will supply only labour; (ii) the Client was also agreeable to follow the proposed model; (iii) residence was less than or equal to 1615 square feet; (iv) the residence was only one level high; (v) the residence was made of reinforced concrete elements and cladded with cellular blocks; (vi) construction started in August 2017; and (vii) the consultant on the project was myself. The impact of the system on the different projects proved to be very successful on many frontiers. The constructions were executed within the expected budgets with very little or insignificant deviations. Duration of projects was as expected and the quality of the resulting works was above average industry standard. Health and safety recommendations were implemented on all of the sites with the result being zero major/fatal accidents. Wastage on site was reduced considerably. Feedbacks collected with the different stakeholders were all positive, which proved that the proposed framework had boosted the performance of these residential building projects.
External Image of the Viticultural Towns Located at the Foot of Little Carpathians
Authors: Sislakova Livia , Seligova Andrea
Published: September 2019

One of the main development axes of the city of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is set through the viticultural region of Little Carpathians. The “Wine Road” leads through the settlements that include Old Rača, now part of the Bratislava city, and adjacent small towns of Sv. Jur, Pezinok and Modra. Throughout centuries, these have developed naturally in the characteristic landscape dominated by the vine growing activities and therefore have strong cultural values for the region, as well as for the whole country. The proposed article deals with the problem of finding the right planning tools, helping in establishing the balance of sustainable development of this micro-region - the balance between the protecting specific cultural and natural values of the area and the increasing pressures on the rapid expansion of the new suburban zones into the characteristic landscape. The article initially looks at the transformation of the external image of these viticultural towns through three stages: 1. The period of the first Industrial Revolution, when the construction of factories and chimneys changed the panorama. 2. The period of the second half of the 20th century, which is the most significant period of changing the external image. The original vineyards were transformed into building plots and the “Old Rača” was absorbed in the development of a modernist panel housing neighborhoods. Sv. Jur was in the era of socialism at the edge of interest due to its sacral history. Modra also stands outside of the main development zone, due to the diversion of the railway towards Trnava and is struggling with individual construction of the family houses. Pezinok has served the role of a district town as an administrative and territorial center and underwent the greatest transformation of its original character. 3. The period of modern history that continues to this day, it is characteristic with the suburbanization, urban sprawl and the destruction of the natural landscape. As one of the possible solutions, the article proposes the use of the “first line” concept - a new method of regulating and planning the city - that reflects also on the ecological and economical size of the town. This line represents the external boundary of the town which should not be crossed in order to maintain the contrast between the natural and cultural environment. Furthermore, the proposed contribution deals with the changes in the external image of the viticultural towns in general, especially in the context of Slovakia, which is nowadays under the pressure of suburbanization and transformation of their natural environment and their characteristic landscape. This process is in the long run unsustainable, as the contrast between the natural and cultural environment diminishes, together with all their values.
Social and Cultural Role of Greenery in Development of Cittaslow Towns
Authors: Jaszczak Agnieszka , Kristianova Katarina
Published: September 2019

The beginnings of the Cittaslow movement date back to 1998. Italian towns became a model for other European towns, and subsequently for others, around the world. This is how an international movement came into being, founded on the idea of improvement of the quality of life of residents, savouring “slow”, healthy lifestyle, drawing on the tradition and history and respecting the natural and cultural environment of small towns. Green areas play a huge role in creating the image of Cittaslow towns. They constitute the so-called “green urban corridors” or “green spots” and have cultural, educational and social significance, including recreation and spa functions. They are not only a complement to architecture, but can play a superior role in the structure of cities. The aim of the work is to analyze the state of parks, squares and green areas management in the Cittaslow towns in region of Warmia and Mazury (Poland). There are 20 environmentally, spatially, economically and demographically diverse towns in the region of Warmia and Mazury that acceded to the association. The international network includes towns with a population under 50 thousand. An analysis of the source materials involved gathering and interpretation of information obtained from monographic and cartographic documentation, both current and archival, from websites of Cittaslow towns and mentions in the media. Apart from a monographic study, the authors carried out a landscape and spatial analysis, pre-project studies and made original designs for selected urban parks and greens in Cittaslow towns. All the Cittaslow towns in the Province of Warmia and Mazury under analysis have high potential in terms of using greenery areas with the social and cultural function. Parks and squares are perfect places for integration of communities and for conducting educational and cultural activities. However, diversity regarding land development and programme offer is observed (utility programme). In some towns, greenery areas cover only space with planned (not always in accordance with the art of gardening) plant compositions. However, parks and squares should be planned not only with their visual aspect in mind, but emphasis should be placed on their utility side (active use). Therefore, the article points to the directions of development of new places, as well the possibility of adding socio-cultural functions to existing greenery areas.
The Influence of Metakaolinite as the Additive on the Extent of Shrinkage Deformations in Case of Cement Concrete Intended for Airfield Pavements
Authors: Malgorzata Linek
Published: September 2019

The research paper presents the suggestion of using metakaolinite as concrete additive. The assessment of efficiency of using metakaolinite included the influence thereof on the modification of the registered shrinkage deformations. Cement concrete contains cement CEM I 42, 5, basalt grit, fine washed aggregate, water and air entraining and plasticizing additive. The influence of the applied metakaolinite on the obtained parameters of concrete mix and hardened concrete was determined. The analyses included concretes curing in standard conditions. Analyses included the assessment of the internal structure of concrete composite in terms of changes of porosity and continuity of contact areas between aggregate grains and cement matrix. Modifications of mechanical and physical parameters and the extent of the registered shrinkage deformations were assessed. Deformation tests were conducted within the period from 1st until 28th day of curing. Reduction of cement quantity and replacement thereof with the suggested metakaolinite allows obtaining the pavement quality concrete of more favourable internal micro structure and distinguished reducing the extent of shrinkage deformations.
Modified Pavement Quality Concrete as Material Alternative to Concrete Applied Regularly on Airfield Pavements
Authors: Malgorzata Linek
Published: September 2019

The work presents test results of two series of hardened cement concrete intended for airfield pavements. Concrete types designed on the basis of regularly used materials were included in the first series. Granite, quartzite, basalt aggregate, gravel and amphibolite aggregate were used in concrete mixes. Cement CEM I 42, 5, fine aggregate (washed sand), water, admixtures (air entraining agent and plasticizer) were also included in the mix composition. Basic parameters for the designed mixes (consistency class and air contents) were specified. The influence of aggregate type on parameters of hardened concretes was assessed. Concrete compressive strength, fracturing strength were analysed. The analysis was conducted during diversified research periods in order to assess the joint influence of aggregate type and the length of curing on the change of concrete parameters. In case of the second series, the material alternative based on the modification of concrete composition of the first series using ceramic modifier was discussed. The applied additive was described and the influence thereof on the change of parameters of mixes and hardened concretes was assessed. According to the obtained parameters of mixes and hardened concrete it was proved that the used modifier in the form of dust has significant impact on the analysed parameters. Increased mechanical (compressive strength, fracture strength) and physical parameters of concrete were proved. Curing concretes were also analysed during diversified research periods. Favourable influence of the suggested modifier on the changes of internal structure of cement concrete was proved. Changes in cement matrix structure, contact layers between cement matrix and grains of aggregate and modifier and porosity characteristics were observed. The analysis of different microstructure of modified concrete and the obtained parameters of hardened modified concrete proved the purposefulness of using the ceramic modifier in the composition of concrete mixes intended for airfield pavements.
Searching for a Model for the Development of Social Housing in the Post-war Transformation Period in Poland
Authors: Zadworny Mariusz
Published: September 2019

The article deals with issues of social housing and designing of residential buildings, implemented as part of social programs. The general development of the concept of social housing in the post-war period - from 1945 up to modern times, is presented. Area limits are shrunk to Polish conditions. The scope of the research covered the primary, completed architectural objects created in the above-mentioned period. Such a time frame shows the dynamics of building development and presents the concept of social housing in the so-called “late industrialization” in Central and Eastern Europe and the specific housing development situation in this part of Europe. The results of the research lead to the formulation of the basic idea that, in Polish conditions, there is a significant shortage of housing designed for poorer sections of the population - easily accessible, meeting the criteria for flexibility of housing systems for different users. This is a necessary background to the contemporary understanding of this issue, especially in the countries undergoing political transformation after 1989, covering the area of Central and Eastern European countries, especially Poland. There are visible attempts to change the model of use of social, urban, residential and private space. The problems of social housing development in Poland are supplemented with knowledge about the activities of new entities for creating the organizational framework of this type of construction (such as: Social Building Societies – “TBS” and others appointed by municipalities, social organizations and associations in urban and extra-urban areas) Poland in 1996 - now. Their participation in the creation of this type of architecture implies design and organizational solutions for the implementation of desirable residential buildings. Attention is also paid to the environmental effects of the designed architecture and adaptation to local conditions. It is important to recognize the current state of development of the design of this type of residential buildings to generate the form of such architecture in the conditions of transformation (social, political and economic, etc.) The emphasis here is on understanding the principles and specificity of designing a residential social architecture. The article calls for a wider application of new technologies and methods for the use of renewable energy sources in Polish conditions for social housing solutions. This approach to the design of environmentally sensitive architecture, in which new technologies for obtaining energy for social purposes play a key role, are becoming desirable in Polish conditions. The question of eco-efficiency in social housing solutions in Polish conditions is raised as an inseparable mechanism of organizational, design and implementation activities. The buildings and social estates currently designed in Poland are an example of searching for a pattern adapted to the new conditions in the 21st century.