The Design of an Ultra-Transparent Funicular Glass Structure

Masoud Akbarzadeh, Mohammad Bolhassani, Andrei Nejur, Joseph Robert Yost, Cory Byrnes, Jens Schneider, Ulrich Knaack, Chris Borg Costanzi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientific

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This project presents novel research in structural design and analysis of an ultra-transparent pedestrian bridge made exclusively of glass sheets in a double layer, funicular, compression-only configuration. The funicular form of the bridge maximizes its structural performance and minimizes the use of materials and resources. The structural form of the project has been developed using 3D graphic statics (3DGS) that is a geometry-based structural design method allowing the extensive exploration of funicular structural solutions in three dimensions. Using the 3DGS method results in structural forms that are polyhedral geometries with planar faces. Therefore, not only does 3DGS find the efficient structural forms, but its planarity constraint facilitates the construction using flat sheet materials. The current structure of the bridge consists of three-dimensional polyhedral cells as hollow glass blocks with planar glass faces held together in compression by using transparent silicon-based substance. The total span of the bridge is 10 m (32.81 ft) with a one-meter deck for pedestrian traffic. The asymmetric geometry of the bridge will significantly improve the behavior of the bridge under asymmetric and lateral loading conditions.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStructures Congress 2019
Subtitle of host publicationBlast, Impact Loading, and Research and Education - Selected Papers from the Structures Congress 2019
EditorsJames Gregory Soules
Pages405-413
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9780784482247
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameStructures Congress 2019: Blast, Impact Loading, and Research and Education - Selected Papers from the Structures Congress 2019

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