Submission #14 CLOSE
Associated Engineering Ltd. Entry #1 (Calgary)
The dominating feature of cable stayed bridges are the pylons. The designer seeks to achieve an ideal balance between structural integrity, economy, constructability, aesthetics and durability. For pylons to be efficient they need to be high to achieve a reasonable inclination of the cables supporting the deck and the pylons must be stable to resist out of balance loading. To achieve a relatively light and open pylon, the designer has opted for two inclined arches which straddle the main deck. The inspiration for the arched pylon has come from the name of the Bow River.
Because of its size and location, this bridge will create a social reaction to those that observe it. The designer considers it an ethical responsibility to create a positive social reaction with this bridge. The relatively thin deck and open pylon structure is to give the bridge a certain radiance, and unobtrusive harmony with its natural surroundings. The designer considers it important for the bridge to be relatively transparent, and for nature to be seen through the structure.
To add to the intrigue and visual stimulation, the bridge is to have a horizontally curved deck which in turn allows the arched pylon to be dramatically asymmetrical for the observer walking underneath it. This interaction between deck and arched pylon allows for the efficient array of cables.
The arched pylon profile was further inspired by a buffalo skeleton. The designerÃs intention is to make this bridge unique with strong links to its setting and nature. With the arched pylon and sculptural bracing being the main feature of the bridge, the structural steel connections have been designed to represent stretched animal hides of a previous era that is synonymous with this land.
