Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
The unusual structural properties of the fabrics themselves also have a great impact
on the working relationship between the architect and the structural engineer. Due to
their minimal thickness, fabrics typically have negligible resistance to either bending
or compression. Because of these limitations in load carrying ability, the fabric must
be shaped in a precise manner that allows it to carry all applied loads purely in
tension. The determination of these shapes is both less commonplace and more
complex than determination of the geometry of a conventional concrete or steel
frame, and the architect is typically dependent on a structural engineer specializing in
fabric structures for assistance in determining the general form of the roof.
Fabric structure contractors fill the need for early specialized engineering input by
offering design services that include consulting on design concepts, specifications,
material options, and building code issues. Less frequently, the architect or owner
retains a structural engineer with specialized knowledge of tensioned fabric
structures.
Whatever the arrangement of the design and construction team, it is imperative that a
designer or consultant with detailed knowledge of fabric structure behavior be
involved at the inception of the project, so that a shape is derived which responds to
fabric and cable curvature requirements and provides appropriate behavior under
load. Lack of such initial input can lead to designs that are, at best, uneconomical
and, at worst, unbuildable.
2.2 Concept Development and Preliminary Design
Concept development and the collaboration between architect and structural engineer
on a fabric structure must begin with the establishment of basic architectural
parameters that include the following:
1. What area is to be covered?
2. Is the structure to be fully enclosed, or may it be completely or partially open
sided?
3. Where will rain or other precipitation be directed?
4. What visual character should the fabric structure have? Is it to be a dramatic
focal point, or just a subdued complement to other elements of the design?
Should its form reflect that of other elements in the project or of the
surrounding neighborhood?
5. What are daylighting and ventilation requirements of the structure?
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