Structural Knowledge within the 6th Century AD Arch of Taq-iKisra

摘要

The physical form of the ancient arch of Taq-iKisra is studied. A structural analysis is developed considering its unusual geometry. In addition, a physical model using hanging chains to represent the uneven distribution of weight was built. Due to the particular geometry of the arch, it is concluded that the designer-builders of this 6th century arch must have utilized hanging models or physical scale models to derive its unusual geometry. If hanging models were used, this would predate the earliest use of the catenary by Robert Hooke in the construction of arches in the 17th century.