STRUCTURAL GLASS FACADES - USC School of Architecture

Design Considerations
The strongback component can be a simple tube or a custom built-up section. So called
“improved” sections can increase efficiency and appearance, but generally do both at some
cost.
Transparency: As the span increases the section properties of the strongback will increase
and transparency will be compromised. Still, the relatively thin profile made possible by the
use of steel yields a comparatively high level of perceived transparency.
Geometric flexibility: The strongback can be designed to accommodate any surface variation
required.
Design issues: The section properties of the strongback member will increase with span,
becoming increasingly inefficient from a material utilization standpoint in comparison to a
simple truss. The designer must make the determination of when to use a strongback
verses a simple truss based upon the variables of application, among them: span, design
loads, depth constraints, budget and aesthetic considerations.
Form-finding: Not required.
Glass system interface: The concept is for the strongback to provide a glass interface
matching a longer spanning system(s). Any of the glass systems can be accommodated with
strongback support.
Resources and Technology
Maturity: General parity with simple truss systems.
Materials and Processes: A fabricated steel component, galvanized and painted.
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