The Lightweight Structures Association of Australasia 
2010 Symposium

Design of Tension Membrane and Shadecloth Shade Structures

Thursday  October 21st 2010 in Brisbane at the Brisbane River View Hotel

Tensioned membrane structures have become an important structural form for both large span roof structures as well as for smaller covered areas which also serve as an architectural statement.

The design principles and fabric material properties needed to be understood for a successful realization of a project are not covered in University courses. This seminar is an opportunity to learn about the basic structural design parameters, material selection, fabrication and erection techniques.

A particular focus of the seminar will be design factors, fabrication details, shade prediction and maintenance of smaller shade structures made from knitted porus shade-cloth with applications to providing shade to schools, playgrounds and domestic environments.

Topics which will be presented

• Brief history of tensile structures and modern architectural fabric materials
• Understanding the engineering design process and the nature of structural supports
• Fabrication, construction, installation and maintenance processes
• Particular issues (shade prediction, legal, costing, vandalism, access etc) pertaining to shade cloth structures.

Speakers:

A number of speakers will present the material who have had extensive experience in the field.