The Usage of Iterative Methods of Implementation of Complex Civil Engineering Projects Based on Stadium Canopy Large-Scale Spatial Structures

Abstract

The term iteration (from the Latin „iteratio” - repetition) deals with actions based on repeating a specific process as a method of achieving the desired objective. The iterative approach is used in computer science in creating programming algorithms. The iterative method is based on the assumption that a complicated program is created as the sum of individual iterations – separate steps that are increasingly detailed. The implementation of civil engineering projects is often indicated by computer science theorists as an example of not using the iterative methodology to solve complex problems. This is justified by the necessity to create a plan of realization for subsequent, different actions based on a previously prepared interdisciplinary design. However, there is an entire group of large-scale spatial structures whose characteristics point to the possibility of using iterative methodology both during the design phase, as well as in its implementation. Such facilities are oval stadium canopies based on using a repetitive spatial element in the construction structure, which in determining a clearly dominant architectural form constitutes a separate iteration also in the temporal sense. Testing the accuracy of the above-mentioned thesis is based on analyses of selected examples of stadium canopies as far as layout forms, as well as the principles of the functioning of constructional structures, exceptional due to extensive span and force. It is necessary to conduct an analysis of the characteristic features of these facilities, their structures, as well as the relationship between the spatial shape with the algorithms used and types of repetitive components. The implementation methods based on prefabrication of the elements of the constructional structure, as well as repetitive production and assembly schemes, should also be tested. In the tested multi-scale spatial facilities with clearly defined, often rhythmical structures such as stadium canopies, there are algorithms made up of clear iterations. Both singular, as well as sequential iterations, are used, the latter being a consequence of adapting the layout shape to the functional system of the stadium in case of facilities on the plan of an ellipse. In the facilities based on the plan of a circle, there is an algorithm with one type of an iteration with a scale resulting from the assumed constant constructional rhythm. The iterative approach is an immanent feature of designing and implementing large-scale oval stadium canopy spatial structures. The iterative method also concerns the process of constructional optimization of each individual element of the structure. Facilities created with the use of the iterative methodology are characterized by purity, honesty, and clarity of the synthetic architecture which corresponds in full to the thoroughly optimized construction. In addition, the postulate of the unity of function, form, and construction in architecture is also fulfilled.