STRUCTURAL GLASS FACADES - USC School of Architecture

accommodate application needs from concept design through installation. Using the cable
net example, a cable net product in this sense would include design tools, guidelines and
tutorials, samples, images, connection and interface details for a range of applications,
technical information and support, product specifications, installation equipment, methods
and support, and a system warranty, and of course cables and all components, all available
as a single package with or without glass. No one in the market is doing this with the
structural systems that make up structural glass façade technology. The key to unlocking
this potential is the same dynamic as with the Willis Faber building; a partnership between
industry and the designer whereby the designer is provided with the tools, information and
know-how required to design with the product.
10.3.5 Applications to Multi-story and High-rise Structures
Little has changed in the curtain wall technology used to clad high-rise buildings since its
widespread adoption in the mid 20 th century. If there is to be any radical innovation in the
manner in which such structures are clad, it is very likely to emerge from the cutting-edge of
structural glass façade technology.
A Cable Supported Curtain Wall System
Conventional curtain walls are constructed from aluminum extrusions that act as a structural
framing system for the glass or other panel cladding material. An alternative worthy of
exploration would be a cable based system. Steel cables running vertically on the glazing
grid could be attached at each floor slab. A variety of glass systems are already designed for
attachment to a cable system. Fire-safing and spandrel panels of various configurations
could be designed as part of the system. Dual-skin glass panel types could also be
developed.
Alternate weather seal strategies could also be explored. Conventional curtain wall systems
use extrusions with complex section configurations designed to provide pressure
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