GRAVITY-LESS IN ARCHITECTURE AS A DESIGN PROBLEM: CASE STUDIES OF SINGAPORE NATIONAL STADIUM AND MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM, ATLANTA

Abstract

Sports Stadiums have the capabilities to invite a large crowd, therefore the need to cover a large span to cater to a maximum number of people without affecting the viewpoint and comfortability of the public to enjoy the sports becomes the foremost factor in their structure. In this light stadium Structures are unique in themselves as they require to be column-free, high span, and open plan. Through the help of case studies and comparative analysis of different structures, it can be observed that Gravity-less Structure can be made by using Trusses and Spaceframes Structures. More ever moveable structures can also cover long spans. To conceptualize this problem case study of Singapore National Stadium is chosen for this assignment. The project uses spaces trusses interlinked with louvers that allow the structure to cover a span of 312 m with a height of 80 m and making it the world's largest dome. The upper part of the Roof is Moveable depending upon the use of the Stadium. The structure moves along the outside vault, from the closed to the empty location, the reinforcing framework of the moving areas is planned with adaptable associations, allowing the structure to stop and twist under the activity of gravity. The roof system uses a space truss structure. The structures are arranged like a half-ball dome. Thus, a wide enough distance can still be covered with lightweight and strong materials.

Keywords

 Islamic architecture; volumetric forms; structural challenges; domes; arches; minarets; large-span structures; lateral stability; contemporary mosque architecture.