A 90 foot high glass and steel space frame enclosing a 130 foot x 280 foot courtyard.
Unique Challenges
This impressive structure is supported only by eight cantilever columns on three interconnected roof vaults
The design had to ensure that the structure would not experience non-linear “oil can” or “snap-through” effects
The domed roof had to be constructed in stages and glass had to be installed before the entire steel structure was complete
Solution
FE analysis was performed for all stages of installation to ensure the structure’s integrity. Stresses of the members and connections along with the loads to the temporary supports were considered at each stage.
