Large structures in motion

Innovative architectural projects often have included methods for moving structural elements. These moving elements can be driven using wire ropes. The paper presents different technologies that have been used for this purpose and focuses on the moving roof of the new Singapore Sport Hub stadium. The stadium is the world's largest domed structure. This roof contains two moveable panels of 10,000 m2, each of which traverses a 20 degree slope. Each panel is driven by 8 wire ropes of 50 mm diameter. The authors describe the driving mechanism which has been devised as a safety system permitting the roof panels to be moved above 55,000 spectators while they are seated in the arena.

Author:

J.M. Teissier and D. Sayenga