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STRUCTURAL GLASS FACADES - USC School of Architecture

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Pre-tension requirements: The cable bracing will require pre-tensioning.<br />

Reaction Loads: Prestress forces in the cable bracing will be transferred to anchor structure.<br />

Structural Efficiency: Depending on geometry and construction, gridshells can be the most<br />

efficient <strong>of</strong> structural systems because <strong>of</strong> the combined affects <strong>of</strong> shape and multidirectional<br />

spanning.<br />

Seismic behavior: Gridshell structures <strong>of</strong> complex geometry can exhibit unusual behavior<br />

under seismic loads, and the seismic behavior <strong>of</strong> these structures needs to be carefully<br />

considered as a function <strong>of</strong> shape.<br />

Behavior under extreme loading conditions: Gridshell flexibility depends upon geometry and<br />

system design. Some systems will be more flexible than others, and will potentially perform<br />

better under extreme loading conditions.<br />

Constructability<br />

Fabrication: As discussed above, gridshells are typically built up from the assembly <strong>of</strong><br />

relatively small components. The tolerance <strong>of</strong> these components becomes <strong>of</strong> critical<br />

importance. Few fabricators are qualified for this kind <strong>of</strong> precision production work, but they<br />

do exist. Also, there are a few specialty design/build contractors with experience in the<br />

fabrication and erection <strong>of</strong> gridshell structures.<br />

Installation: The same applies to installation as with fabrication. Few erectors have<br />

experience with the assembly and installation <strong>of</strong> gridshell structures, which do involve<br />

special consideration. As with any <strong>of</strong> the systems requiring pre-tensioning and complex<br />

assembly methods, the erector should be required to submit a detailed method statement<br />

outlining the assembly and erection procedures.<br />

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