arch.
is a curved structure capable of spanning a space while supporting
significant weight (e.g. a doorway in a stone wall).
An arch requires all of its elements to hold it together.
This raises the interesting question of how an arch is actually
constructed. One simple answer is to build a frame (historically,
of wood) which exactly follows the form of the underside of
the arch. This is known as a centre or centring. The voussoirs
are laid on it until the arch is complete and self-supporting.
For an arch higher than head height, scaffolding would in
any case be required by the builders, so the scaffolding can
be combined with the arch support. Occasionally arches would
fall down when the frame was removed if construction or planning
had been incorrect. The interior and lower line or curve of
an arch is known as the intrados.
TYPES:
- Vault:
An application of the arch extended
horizontally in two dimensions; the groin vault
is the intersection of two vaults.
- Dome:
A three-dimensional application
of the arch, rotated about the center axis. Igloos
are notable early structures making use of domes.
- Special form of the
Arch:
The triumphal arch,
usually built to celebrate a victory in war. The
most famous example is the Arc de Triomphe in Paris,
France.
- Natural rock
Formations:
May also be referred
to as arches. These natural arches are formed by
erosion rather than being carved or constructed
by man.
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