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Archways Quote by Gustave Eiffel

“The fundamental idea of these pylons, or great archways, is based on a method of construction peculiar to me, of which the principle consists in giving to the edges of the pyramid a curve of such a nature that this pyramid shall be capable of resisting the force of the wind without necessitating…” quote by Gustave Eiffel
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“The fundamental idea of these pylons, or great archways, is based on a method of construction peculiar to me, of which the principle consists in giving to the edges of the pyramid a curve of such a nature that this pyramid shall be capable of resisting the force of the wind without necessitating the junction of the edges by diagonals as is usually done.”

Gustave Eiffel

About This Quote

Source Speech: Lecture on Structural Design, Gustave Eiffel, 1889

Eiffel describes a construction method where pyramid edges are curved to resist wind without diagonal bracing.

In simple terms: Curved pyramid edges can hold up against wind without extra braces.

Key Takeaway

Use curved edges for wind‑resistant designs.

Themes

engineering architecture innovation structural design

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

technical educational

When to use this quote

  • bridge building
  • skyscraper design
  • wind tunnel testing
  • architectural education

Key Concepts

wind resistance curved geometry load distribution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does curvature affect material usage?
  • What are the trade‑offs between simplicity and strength?
A Different Perspective

Curved edges may be harder to fabricate and require precise calculations.

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