Das strukturale Komponieren von Tragwerken bei Jörg Schlaich

The engineered composition of load-bearing structures in the work of Jörg Schlaich

The dialectics of deductive and inductive methods in construction engineering are clearly illustrated in the conceptualisation [1] developed by architect Oskar Büttner and civil engineer ERHARD HAMPE (Fig. 1). However, one-sided working methods are still the norm in everyday engineering practice. Thus a blinkered progression from the abstract to the concrete (deductive method) ultimately leads to calculation-based building. Conversely, an equally blinkered progression from the concrete to the abstract (inductive method) leads to construction governed by form. JÖRG SCHLAICH has never limited himself to either of these restricted viewpoints (Figure 2). Instead, he performs an engineered composition of load-bearing structures, applying intuition and creativity as part of a unified approach based on an underlying theoretical understanding. This engineered composition of load-bearing structures consists of achieving a 'steady state' at the transition between the load-bearing system and load-bearing structure phases. The load-bearing system → load-bearing structure transition is where a model becomes reality, and conversely the load-bearing structure → load-bearing system transition is where the tangible structure becomes a model abstracted to show its load-bearing function. Both transitions lie at the heart of the matter, where load-bearing system analysis and synthesis meet, where it is possible to develop new load-bearing structures. Such new structures will only be realised if a flow remains possible in both directions between the load-bearing system and load-bearing structure phases, and if the design and construction teams are willing and able to identify and seize this opportunity. This is a fundamental feature of the Stuttgart school of construction engineering in general and the work of JÖRG SCHLAICH in particular.