Gravity
Glasstec 2018 exhibit, Dusseldorf, Germany
The bold idea of ‘Gravity’, concieved by Define Engineers and creatively enhanced by Carpenter | Lowings’ architectural input, resulted in an outstanding realisation by seele’s manufacturing exellence. Two sheets of thin glass elegantly bonded to stainless-steel edge strips are suspended from a tripod structure which holds the swinging car tantalizingly close over a podium. This visually and physically light structure without mechanical fixings impresses with its load bearing capacity. 'Gravity' is showcasing the technological advances in glass processing, adhesives, high precision engineering and manufacturing and can be seen as a demonstration of a highly innovative, efficient and aesthetic design.
Define’s scope : Complete concept to completion design and engineering, Permanent and temporary structural analysis, Bespoke fittings and mechanicals part development, Testing regime development, Construction sequence analysis, Material selection and treatment, Complete design development in 2D and 3D, Structural engineering for glass and steel components
Key facts:
glass thickness - 2x2mm HS glass laminated with SGP
car weight - 1.5 tonnes
bonding area - 2x3 patches of 300x40mm TSSA per panel
breakage capacity of glass panel = 10 850kg
breakage capacity of TSSA = 15 300kg
frictionless 360o spinning and 15o swinging of the car
car - Fiat Coupe, 1990s
A key feature of Gravity is the transparent connection between the glass and the stainless steel brackets solved with The Dow Chemical Company DOWSIL™ Transparent Structural Silicone Adhesive (TSSA). Input was also gathered from TriPyramid Structures who designed and produced the central pivot bearing.
Involving every team member as required, guided by the central design trio of Define, C|L and seele, 'Gravity' was an efficient and focussed process. We highly enjoyed the collaborative spirit of the project characterised by a high level of trust and technical knowledge, as well as a respect for the value of good design from all parties.
In collaboration with Carpenter | Lowings and seele
