Method

Design

Mathematics

Experiment

Fabrication

Design Mathematics Experiment Fabrication

Our method is based on 4 main themes : Drawing, mathematics, experiment, and culture of fabrication. Drawing practice in structural engineering, provides an overall view of the subject, and helps to focus on some critical items needing deeper calculations. Drawing enhances communication and auto-control. Beyond calculations, we use mathematics to build complex models and introduce parameters. Therefore, we can define more precisely their topology (high points, in plan boundaries, slopes), even in advanced study phases. We prefer to use a direct approach than dedicated softwares. Nowadays, computation tools development facilitates experiment. Combining calculation and 3D modeling, we often reach large fields of innovation. But construction is a matter of material. Building physical models allows us to understand and explain some phenomenons (instability, non-linear behaviour, geometric stiffness). It also feeds the reflexion on construction processes. Since 1998, we participate to special works in Europe, Africa and Asia. Following the fabrication of these structures allows us today a comparative approach of construction methods and products. For example, welding on site is very common in China and tends to disappear in Europe. These different practices are key inputs and require different designs. But their confrontation produces also unexpected solutions.