IASS 2009 Symposium -- IASS 50th Anniversary

Evolution and Trends in Design, Analysis and Construction of Shell and Spatial Structures

Organized by:
Universidad Politécnica de Valencia
Centro de Estudios y Experimentación de Obras Públicas (CEDEX)

OBJECTIVES.
In 1959 Prof. Eduardo Torroja founded the International Association of Shell and Spatial Structures.  Since then, the IASS has been a major reference in all fields related to spatial and shell structures, from concept to practical execution. Engineers, architects, researchers and educators have addressed structural science topics in yearly symposia, colloquia and working groups with highly valuable results. For 50 years the association has witnessed the evolution of concepts, materials, systems, procedures and tools that are all related to structures.  The combined action of each of these factors has led to the present panorama of structures and steers future progress in our discipline.  The 2009 Symposium which, as is customary, is held in Spain every 10 years, aims to gather a wide group of engineers, architects, researchers and educators able to contribute with their work, experience and perspective to the understanding of this past evolution and the exploration of future trends in the field of shell and spatial structures. 

THEMES

The Symposium embraces all aspects of shell and spatial structures, including at least the following topics:

• Design and morphology: Conceptual design, form finding, free form design, geometrical tools.
• Analysis: Analytical models and computational methods applied to dynamics, stability, optimization, morphogenesis, control; AI applications.
• Materials: Environmental compatibility, experiences with new structural materials, smart materials, material modelling.
• Structural systems: Shells, spatial trusses and lattices, membranes, cable structures, tensegrity systems.
• Realization: Towers, complex buildings, roof systems, bridges, footbridges, lightweight structures, retractable and deployable structures, construction processes, prefabrication, detailing, testing, monitoring and control.
• Other topics: Historical buildings, damage and collapse, structural pathology.
  

LANGUAGE
English will be the official language for both oral and written presentations

E-MAIL FOR CORRESPONDENCE
Conference Secretariat: Patricia Milán
e-mail address: secretariat@iassvalencia2009.com
Website: http://www.iassvalencia2009.com