Lishuai Jin, R. Khajehtourian, Jochen Mueller
et al.
Significance Mimicking material-level phenomena using macroscopically architected materials has gained popularity and enabled novel engineering applications such as photonic, acoustic, mechanical, and topological metamaterials. An interesting microstructural phenomenon observed in phase-transforming materials is the dissipative motion of topological defects such as phase and domain boundaries. With a few one-dimensional exceptions, structural analogs of dynamic phase-transforming materials are still rare, owing to their complicating strong nonlinearity. Through experiments, models, and simulations, we demonstrate a concept for tailoring propagating transition fronts in periodic structures in arbitrary dimensions. This significantly increases the design space of metamaterial performance and functionality and finds application in programming soft robotic locomotion, in controlling energy absorption (or release), and in mechanical logic devices. Transition fronts, moving through solids and fluids in the form of propagating domain or phase boundaries, have recently been mimicked at the structural level in bistable architectures. What has been limited to simple one-dimensional (1D) examples is here cast into a blueprint for higher dimensions, demonstrated through 2D experiments and described by a continuum mechanical model that draws inspiration from phase transition theory in crystalline solids. Unlike materials, the presented structural analogs admit precise control of the transition wave’s direction, shape, and velocity through spatially tailoring the underlying periodic network architecture (locally varying the shape or stiffness of the fundamental building blocks, and exploiting interactions of transition fronts with lattice defects such as point defects and free surfaces). The outcome is a predictable and programmable strongly nonlinear metamaterial motion with potential for, for example, propulsion in soft robotics, morphing surfaces, reconfigurable devices, mechanical logic, and controlled energy absorption.
Climate action requires rapid, evidence-based and locally appropriate adaptation measures. Effective responses in the built environment depend on integrated, multilevel solutions developed through inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration. Long-term, effective adaptation must fulfil five key criteria: contextual fitness, capacity for local implementation, systemic transformation, future-oriented planning and flexibility to avoid maladaptation. This study applies this analytical framework derived from climate adaptation theory to observational analyses and expert interviews to examine how building technology laboratories (BTLs) and living labs (LLs) facilitate systemic and context-specific adaptation in the built environment. By analysing purposely selected research institutions, the study conveys the potential of these laboratories to drive transformational climate change adaptation. These findings are discussed in relation to their relevance for resource-constrained regions. The cross-case study analysis of selected research facilities can inform the establishment of similar facilities in the Southern Africa region, contributing to climate adaptation research, enhancing local adaptive capacity and promoting long-term regional resilience. POLICY RELEVANCE In the context of a rapidly changing climate, practitioners and policymakers must act decisively to implement effective built environment-related climate adaptation measures, BTLs and LLs. Based on seven case studies, key adaptation criteria (contextual relevance, local feasibility, systemic transformation, future-oriented planning and flexibility) are used to assess how BTLs and LLs contribute to systemic and context-specific climate adaptation. Transferable lessons from these laboratories are identified and their potential application is discussed for resource-constrained settings. These insights are contextualised for Southern Africa, advocating the implementation of laboratories to enhance local research and development capacity, inform practical interventions and strengthen long-term regional resilience to climate change.
Architectural engineering. Structural engineering of buildings
Miruna Cristina Boca, C. Bungău, Ioana Francesca Hanga-Fărcaș
Climate change refers to a significant and measurable alteration in the climate’s state, evident through shifts in the average and variability of key climate factors. Although the onset of climate change spans several decades, recent studies reveal a concerning intensification that is increasingly driven by anthropogenic activities, with the construction sector emerging as a significant contributor. The present paper investigates climate-conscious innovations within Romania’s construction industry, with a specific focus on the implementation of adaptive strategies. Through a narrative review methodology, this study synthesizes diverse sources, including scientific literature, technical reports, urban policy documents and relevant websites, to map the integration of sustainable construction practices in response to climate pressures. The findings highlight a range of local approaches, including passive design, green infrastructure, and reversible architecture, reflecting Romania’s gradual alignment with broader European environmental objectives. Despite Romania’s relatively low green contribution on a global scale, the country faces significant climate risks, including heatwaves, intense rainfall, and droughts. This evolving climate context necessitates a comprehensive adaptation of architectural practices, construction processes, material selection, and design strategies to mitigate environmental impact and enhance resilience. However, the narrative review approach has inherent limitations, including the potential for selection bias and limited replicability, which constrain the generalizability of the findings. Future research should employ quantitative and empirical methods to validate the effectiveness of climate-adaptive measures in structural engineering. Key areas include the integration of climate-resilient materials, structural performance under climate-induced stressors, and lifecycle carbon assessments of building components. Additionally, further investigation is needed into the development of predictive simulation models that assess the long-term structural impacts of evolving climate scenarios specific to Romania’s geographic and climatic conditions.
Yogyakarta has experienced rapid growth in the culinary business sector, particularly in restaurants and cafés, resulting in increasingly intense competition among entrepreneurs to attract visitors. One strategy commonly employed is the creation of a comfortable café atmosphere with distinctive architectural characteristics. This study aims to examine the influence of architectural aspects of store atmosphere elements on consumers’ interest in visiting the Bento Kopi café in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. A descriptive quantitative method was applied, with the research population consisting of Bento Kopi visitors who had visited the café at least twice. Purposive sampling was used to select respondents aged 17–50 years. Data were collected through questionnaires, architectural drawings, and documentation of existing building conditions. The results indicate that store atmosphere elements with a relatively strong influence on consumers’ intention to revisit are architectural aspects of the general interior, particularly color, floor type, furniture, aroma, sound, and wall texture.
Technology, Architectural engineering. Structural engineering of buildings
Zulhadi Sahputra, Dewi Larasati, Aswin Indraprastha
The implementation of tectonic expression within Indonesian architecture has undergone a marked reduction in recent times. This decline is especially discernible in vernacular structures such as the Rumoh Aceh. As a significant element of cultural heritage, Rumoh Aceh embodies distinctive formal configurations and spatial principles that merit investigation through a tectonic lens. The principal aim of this study is to examine the applicability of the shape grammar method in analyzing the tectonic characteristics inherent in the form of Rumoh Aceh. Employing an explanatory case study as its methodological framework, this research entails a thorough examination of pertinent literature related to the application of shape grammar. The analytical findings indicate that the shape grammar methodology can be effectively utilized to codify the architectural form and tectonic elements of Rumoh Aceh. This methodological approach is anticipated to enrich the spectrum of techniques available for exploring and recording tectonic knowledge within the context of traditional Indonesian architecture, with a concentrated emphasis on Rumoh Aceh.
Architecture, Architectural engineering. Structural engineering of buildings
Alexandros Gazis, Ioannis Papadongonas, Athanasios Andriopoulos
et al.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of sensors commonly used in low-cost, low-power systems, focusing on key concepts such as Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and smart sensor technologies. It outlines the evolving roles of sensors, emphasizing their characteristics, technological advancements, and the transition toward "smart sensors" with integrated processing capabilities. The article also explores the growing importance of mini-computing devices in educational environments. These devices provide cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions for system monitoring, prototype validation, and real-world application development. By interfacing with wireless sensor networks and IoT systems, mini-computers enable students and researchers to design, test, and deploy sensor-based systems with minimal resource requirements. Furthermore, this article examines the most widely used sensors, detailing their properties and modes of operation to help readers understand how sensor systems function. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the most suitable sensors for various applications by explaining their uses and operations in simple terms. This clarity will assist researchers in selecting the appropriate sensors for educational and research purposes or understanding why specific sensors were chosen, along with their capabilities and possible limitations. Ultimately, this research seeks to equip future engineers with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate cutting-edge sensor networks, IoT, and Big Data technologies into scalable, real-world solutions.
The field of software engineering is embedded in both engineering and computer science, and may embody gender biases endemic to both. This paper surveys software engineering's origins and its long-running attention to engineering professionalism, profiling five leaders; it then examines the field's recent attention to gender issues and gender bias. It next quantitatively analyzes women's participation as research authors in the field's leading International Conference of Software Engineering (1976-2010), finding a dozen years with statistically significant gender exclusion. Policy dimensions of research on gender bias in computing are suggested.
Problem statement. The active use of renewable energy sources and the introduction of energy-efficient systems in all spheres of life today is the most important component of future development, which can change the life and comfort of every person. And it is very important to determine the place of architecture in this process. Analyzing the global experience of architectural activity in recent decades, especially in economically developed countries, it can be noted that engineering and technological systems of alternative energy are becoming an integral part of various types of buildings and complexes, both residential (low-rise, high-rise) and public (business, retail, cultural, multifunctional complexes, etc.). Alternative energy is becoming one of the factors influencing the layout and appearance of a building, the choice of materials and decorative finishing, and significantly influencing the formation of objects of new “innovative” architecture. Purpose of the article. To explore the features of the architectural form formation of energy-efficient multi-storey buildings as a result of the interdependence of architecture and energy-efficient technological systems using the example of modern architectural objects in the world. Conclusion. Engineering and technological systems of alternative energy for multi-storey buildings, based on renewable energy sources, provide such characteristics of buildings as: environmental friendliness, autonomy, self-sufficiency, profitability, energy efficiency and a high level of living comfort, architectural individuality and freedom of architectural form formation, unusual volumetric and compositional architectural solutions objects.
This paper investigated the performance of Vedic multipliers in a 32-bit Multiplier-Accumulator Unit (MAC) by comparing Urdhva Tiryakbhyam and Nikhilam Sutras with various adder architectures. The goal was to identify the optimal combination of speed and resource efficiency. Urdhva Tiryakbhyam with CLA emerged as the fastest option, achieving a minimal delay of 0.709 ns. However, this came at the cost of higher resource utilization, measured in Logic Look-Up Tables (LUTs). Conversely, Nikhilam implementations generally required fewer LUTs, making them more resource-efficient, but they exhibited slightly slower performance. CLA consistently delivered the best delay for both Vedic multiplier types among the adder architectures. All the explored configurations are viable for practical implementation on Xilinx ISE 14.7. The key takeaway is that the choice between Urdhva Tiryakbhyam and Nikhilam and the specific adder architecture hinges on the application’s priorities.
Ali Naji, Thamer M. Jamel M. Jamel, Hassan F. khazaal
Digital beamforming (DBF) is a crucial technology for large antenna arrays, offering precise control over beam steering. This research introduces a novel method to enhance millimeter wave transmission by incorporating DBF with long-term memory (LSTM) based deep learning Our system utilizes digital signal processing and LSTM networks to optimize beamforming parameters instead of relying on traditional analog beamforming. The objective is to achieve high spectral efficiency. The methodology is executed in the programming language MATLAB and the obtained simulation outcomes validate a substantial enhancement in the metrics that evaluate performance, thereby demonstrating the potential of combining digital beamforming (DBF) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) for forthcoming communication systems. Furthermore, the inclusion of LSTM in the process of digital beamforming presents a comprehensive comprehension of the proposed approach, which imparts valuable insights for advanced communication technologies. To substantiate the efficacy of the technique, several illustrative examples are employed to steer the beam pattern in the desired direction.
Engineering a sustainable world requires to consider various systems that interact with each other. These systems include ecological systems, economical systems, social systems and tech-nical systems. They are loosely coupled, geographically distributed, evolve permanently and generate emergent behavior. As these are characteristics of systems of systems (SoS), we discuss the engi-neering of a sustainable world from a SoS engineering perspective. We studied SoS engineering in context of a research project, which aims at political recommendations and a research roadmap for engineering dynamic SoS. The project included an exhaustive literature review, interviews and work-shops with representatives from industry and academia from different application domains. Based on these results and observations, we will discuss how suitable the current state-of-the-art in SoS engi-neering is in order to engineer sustainability. Sustainability was a major driver for SoS engineering in all domains, but we argue that the current scope of SoS engineering is too limited in order to engineer sustainability. Further, we argue that mastering dynamics in this larger scope is essential to engineer sustainability and that this is accompanied by dynamic adaptation of technological SoS.
Active Learning (AL) is a well-known teaching method in engineering because it allows to foster learning and critical thinking of the students by employing debate, hands-on activities, and experimentation. However, most educational results of this instructional method have been achieved in face-to-face educational settings and less has been said about how to promote AL and experimentation for online engineering education. Then, the main aim of this study was to create an AL methodology to learn electronics, physical computing (PhyC), programming, and basic robotics in engineering through hands-on activities and active experimentation in online environments. N=56 students of two engineering programs (Technology in Electronics and Industrial Engineering) participated in the methodology that was conceived using the guidelines of the Integrated Course Design Model (ICDM) and in some courses combining mobile and online learning with an Android app. The methodology gathered three main components: (1) In-home laboratories performed through low-cost hardware devices, (2) Student-created videos and blogs to evidence the development of skills, and (3) Teacher support and feedback. Data in the courses were collected through surveys, evaluation rubrics, semi-structured interviews, and students grades and were analyzed through a mixed approach. The outcomes indicate a good perception of the PhyC and programming activities by the students and suggest that these influence motivation, self-efficacy, reduction of anxiety, and improvement of academic performance in the courses. The methodology and previous results can be useful for researchers and practitioners interested in developing AL methodologies or strategies in engineering with online, mobile, or blended learning modalities.
Protein nanofibers offer great promise for tissue engineering scaffolds owing to biomimetic architecture and exceptional biocompatibility. Natural silk nanofibrils (SNFs) are promising but unexplored protein nanofibers for biomedical applications. In this study, the SNF-assembled aerogel scaffolds with ECM-mimicking architecture and ultra-high porosity are developed based on a polysaccharides-assisted strategy. The SNFs exfoliated from silkworm silks can be utilized as building blocks to construct 3D nanofibrous scaffolds with tunable densities and desirable shapes on a large scale. We demonstrate that the natural polysaccharides can regulate SNF assembly through multiple binding modes, endowing the scaffolds with structural stability in water and tunable mechanical properties. As a proof of concept, the biocompatibility and biofunctionality of the chitosan-assembled SNF aerogels were investigated. The nanofibrous aerogels have excellent biocompatibility, and their biomimetic structure, ultra-high porosity, and large specific surface area endow the scaffolds with enhanced cell viability to mesenchymal stem cells. The nanofibrous aerogels were further functionalized by SNF-mediated biomineralization, demonstrating their potential as a bone-mimicking scaffold. Our results show the potential of natural nanostructured silks in the field of biomaterials and provide a feasible strategy to construct protein nanofiber scaffolds.
Relevante no debate público nacional desde a sua fundação, o Instituto de Arquitetos do Brasil não limita a sua agenda à institucionalização profissional. Este trabalho se foca em um aspecto pouco explorado nos estudos sobre o tema: a atuação dos departamentos locais do Instituto nas arenas em que as políticas urbanas municipais são discutidas, formuladas e implementadas. Para tanto, investiga-se a relação estabelecida entre o Instituto dos Arquitetos do Brasil – Departamento do Rio de Janeiro e a Prefeitura do Rio de Janeiro sob a gestão Eduardo Paes (2009-2012/2013-2016). Objetiva-se, com isso, compreender como os representantes da entidade atuaram nas disputas em torno de temas que dominaram o debate público da cidade no período, visando a definir e legitimar a prática profissional do grupo e, ao mesmo tempo, a intervir nas propostas elaboradas ou apoiadas pela Prefeitura. A partir desse estudo de caso, pretende-se refletir sobre a atuação desse grupo profissional na disputa pelo monopólio de enunciação dos problemas da cidade, tendo o Estado como instância de legitimação.
Architectural engineering. Structural engineering of buildings
Abstract This study serves as a basic study of the indoor dispersion of pollen particles, simulating the flow field and discussing the behavior of particles of different diameters in different rooms. By comparing the vertical velocity components of particles (w¯p) and the mean flow velocity of z‐direction component (wf) plus the terminal settling velocity in a gravitational field (Vg), the differences between w¯p values and wf plus Vg values are found to occur mainly at locations close to the opposite wall of the inlet. The location of the differences between w¯p values and wf plus Vg values is important findings of this study, which facilitates the improvement of the simulation method at a later stage and the rational design of indoor ventilation patterns to easily remove particles from the room.
Architecture, Architectural engineering. Structural engineering of buildings
Emilio Vital Brazil, Eduardo Soares, Lucas Villa Real
et al.
Data is a critical element in any discovery process. In the last decades, we observed exponential growth in the volume of available data and the technology to manipulate it. However, data is only practical when one can structure it for a well-defined task. For instance, we need a corpus of text broken into sentences to train a natural language machine-learning model. In this work, we will use the token \textit{dataset} to designate a structured set of data built to perform a well-defined task. Moreover, the dataset will be used in most cases as a blueprint of an entity that at any moment can be stored as a table. Specifically, in science, each area has unique forms to organize, gather and handle its datasets. We believe that datasets must be a first-class entity in any knowledge-intensive process, and all workflows should have exceptional attention to datasets' lifecycle, from their gathering to uses and evolution. We advocate that science and engineering discovery processes are extreme instances of the need for such organization on datasets, claiming for new approaches and tooling. Furthermore, these requirements are more evident when the discovery workflow uses artificial intelligence methods to empower the subject-matter expert. In this work, we discuss an approach to bringing datasets as a critical entity in the discovery process in science. We illustrate some concepts using material discovery as a use case. We chose this domain because it leverages many significant problems that can be generalized to other science fields.
The growing interest in biomimicry in built environments highlights the awareness raised among designers on the potentials nature offers to human and system function improvements. Biomimicry has been widely utilized in advanced material technology. However, its potential in sustainable architecture and construction has yet to be discussed in depth. Thus, this study offers a comprehensive review of the use of biomimicry in architecture and structural engineering. It also reviews the methods in which biomimicry assists in achieving efficient, sustainable built environments. The first part of this review paper introduces the concept of biomimicry historically and practically, discusses the use of biomimicry in design and architecture, provides a comprehensive overview of the potential and benefits of biomimicry in architecture, and explores how biomimicry can be utilized in building envelops. Then, in the second part, the integration of biomimicry in structural engineering and construction is thoroughly explained through several case studies. Finally, biomimicry in architectural and structural design of built environments in creating climate-sensitive and energy-efficient design is explained.
Seda Tan, Gulden Gumusburun Ayalp, M. Z. Tel
et al.
One of the latest advancements transforming the global architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry is building information modeling (BIM). Although BIM implementation is at high level in developed countries, it is at a lower level in developing countries. BIM is new to the construction industry in Turkey, with only minor construction firms having implemented it. When making projections based on the current state of the Turkish AEC industry, it is foreseen that it will become mandatory in the near future. Considering this projection, it is doubtful that many construction companies will be caught unprepared for this situation and will not know how to implement BIM. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and model the critical success factors for BIM implementation and their impact size in order to gain insight for the fast and efficient implementation of BIM among construction firms in the Turkish AEC industry, which can be generalized for most developing countries. To reach these aims, a questionnaire was designed with 41 identified success criteria (SC) that were derived through a systematic literature review (SLR). The survey was conducted on construction professionals who actively implement BIM technology at their occupied firms in Turkey and they were asked to rank the importance of 41 SC on a five-point Likert scale. The sampling frame consisted of architects and civil engineers, and in total, 243 responses were received. The differentiation between SC and critical success criteria (CSC) was obtained by using a normalized mean cutoff value. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to identify the critical success factors (CSFs), and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine the underlying size effects of each CSF on BIM implementation in the Turkish AEC industry. The results of this study reveal 20 CSC for successful BIM implementation, and EFA exhibited three CSFs from 20 CSC. Three critical success factors for BIM implementation in the Turkish construction industry were determined and grouped into two categories. “Awareness of technological benefits” and “organizational readiness and competitive advantages” formed one group and are the most influential critical success factors for BIM implementation. “Motivation of management regarding BIM” formed the second group of critical success factors that have a significant effect.