Maillart's design methods and sustainable design

摘要

This paper examines the design methods of Robert Maillart (1872-1940), drawing mainly on hisrnwell-known Chiasso Shed (1924). It shows that Maillart's stiffened arch probably could not havernbeen defined through structural analysis alone, which implies that sound structural principles wouldrnhave had to precede any geometrical definition. His analogical design-based geometry demonstratesrna good structural behaviour. Maillart achieved a reliable structure while relying mostly on graphics.rnIt appears that the design maintains the concrete structure under at least partial compression orrnminimising traction.rnWe conclude that preliminary sound structural principles and Maillart's graphic methods forrngeometrical definition could help to design a durable and reliable structure with advantagesrncomparable to contemporary goals of sustainable design.