Arch and Dome and its types. Arch and dome design excel sheet download.
Arch
The arch is a curved structure that spans an opening and is
designed to support weight.
Its development revolutionized architecture by enabling
builders to create larger openings and distribute weight more efficiently.
The arch is a symbol of strength, as its shape helps
transfer loads from the top of the arch down to the ground.
Without the arch, many architectural marvels, such as
bridges, cathedrals, and aqueducts, would not have been possible.
Types of Arches
- Roman
Arch: The Roman arch, often referred to as the "round arch,"
is one of the earliest and most recognizable types. This arch forms a
semicircle and is often used in bridges and aqueducts. Its strength comes
from its uniform curvature, which distributes the weight evenly across the
structure.
- Pointed
Arch: This type of arch has a pointed top instead of a rounded one,
which distributes the weight more efficiently, making it ideal for taller
structures like Gothic cathedrals. The pointed arch allows for greater
height and the creation of larger windows, which was a significant feature
in medieval architecture.
- Segmental
Arch: A segmental arch is a shallow curve that is less than a
semicircle. It is used in modern bridges and doorways where a more subtle
curve is needed. The segmental arch is efficient in distributing weight,
but it is not as strong as the full Roman or pointed arch.
- Catenary
Arch: This arch follows the shape of a hanging chain or cable, known
as the catenary curve. It is often used in modern design due to its
ability to bear heavy loads and its aesthetic appeal. The catenary arch is
used in structures like bridges, roofs, and even in some modern art
installations.
Dome
The dome is a hemispherical structure that is often used to
cover large, open spaces.
It is one of the oldest and most elegant forms of
architecture, capable of creating expansive interiors without the need for
supporting columns.
Domes are found in some of the world's most famous
buildings, including religious temples, government buildings, and public
spaces.
Types of Domes
- Spherical
Dome: The spherical dome is perfectly rounded and symmetrical,
resembling half of a sphere. It is one of the most common types of domes
and is used in a variety of buildings, including mosques, churches, and
civic buildings. Its smooth curve allows for even weight distribution,
making it a stable structure.
- Geodesic
Dome: Popularized by architect Buckminster Fuller, the geodesic dome
is made up of a network of triangles that form a spherical shape. This
design allows for maximum strength with minimal materials. Geodesic domes
are used in everything from greenhouses to temporary shelters and
exhibition spaces.
- Onion
Dome: This dome has a distinct shape, resembling the bulbous
onion-shaped domes found in Russian and Eastern European architecture. The
onion dome is designed with a pointed shape that tapers at the top, giving
it a unique and decorative appearance.
- Barrel
Vault: A barrel vault is essentially a continuous series of arches
that form a tunnel-like structure. While not a true dome, it functions in
a similar way, as it creates a vaulted roof with the same strength and
stability as a dome.
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