Curved Vierendeel trusses for large roofs

Abstract

Years ago we built a large cover to demonstrate the great possibilities that the Vierendeel solution has to solve double curved roof surfaces. It was the Dos Hermanas Velodrome, a good example of this solution. Now we have planned to solve a large cantilever roof spanning 150 m and flying 34 m with a similar solution. For the Velodrome we proposed a double curvature shell form in cylindrical curvature. At present we propose a double inverted curvature. In this paper we will consider the design, analysis and construction of such an idea from the first sketches to the final results. The advantages of the proposal are important: Lightness, clarity, economy and good appearance.