Project Overview: Construction of architectural canopy at Porto Chino Lifestyle Shopping Center
Project architectural roof at Porto Chino Lifestyle Shopping Center is a large-scale tensile membrane structure, designed as a central landmark. The project is the result of an intensive technical study, transforming the original metal roof concept into a tensile membrane structural solution to meet the strict requirements of aesthetics, natural ventilation and structural efficiency, in line with the project's “Green Architecture” philosophy.
- Investor: Porto Chino Lifestyle Mall
- Category: Architectural canopy for central square
- Structure: Inverted funnel-shaped membrane (“inverted flower”) with central skylight
- Overspan Aperture: ~40 meters
- Main materials: PVDF stretch film, transparent film (ETFE/Clear PVC)
- Technical analysis: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis
- Location: Samut Sakhon, Thailand
Technical Requirements Analysis & Project Context
The project was developed based on the “Green Concept”, which prioritizes maximizing natural ventilation and minimizing the use of air conditioning. The technical requirements for the central canopy must comply with this philosophy:
- Design to Support Natural Ventilation: The roof should not obstruct the natural air circulation between the blocks. The design should have a central opening to create a chimney effect, allowing hot air to escape upwards.
- Creating Iconic Architecture: Must be a highlight building, with a unique, soft shape, contrasting with the surrounding commercial buildings.
- Large span (~40m): A large public square needed to be covered with a light, graceful structure, without internal support columns.
- Optimizing Natural Light: A central skylight must be integrated to bring natural light into the space below, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Technical Solutions and Implementation Process
To solve the above complex engineering problems, a comprehensive solution from design, technical analysis to material selection has been applied.
'Inverted Flower' Texture Design
The design solution is an inverted funnel-shaped tensile membrane structure, simulating an 'inverted flower'. The canopy has a span of nearly 40m, creating a large public space underneath. The centre of the canopy is designed with a skylight using transparent materials, allowing natural light to shine down and creating a unique visual effect both day and night.
Wind Load Analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Due to the complex 3D shape of the canopy, it was not possible to determine the wind pressure coefficient (Cp) from conventional design standards. Instead of using costly Wind Tunnel Testing, the engineering team applied Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. Computer models of the building and the main wind directions were created to accurately simulate the wind pressure acting on each area of the membrane surface. This method not only provided accurate loading data for structural design, but also allowed the efficiency of the convection airflow through the central skylight to be tested.
Technical Materials Tension Membrane
Use a combination of white PVDF membrane for most of the area to maximize heat reflection and transparent membrane (ETFE or Clear PVC) for the central skylight to get light. This combination is the optimal solution for projects tensile membrane structure Modern, balance between shade and light.
Results and Performance Evaluation
Project architectural roof in Porto Chino has become a model for shopping centers following the 'Lifestyle Mall' model:
- In terms of architecture and identity: The “inverted flower” design has become a unique symbol, enhancing the value and appeal of the entire commercial area.
- On technical efficiency: The application of CFD analysis has ensured a safe and optimal structural design, accurately calculated for real-world conditions.
- On energy efficiency and environment: The project has excellently met the green design philosophy, supporting natural ventilation and taking advantage of daylight, helping to reduce energy consumption.
- About customer experience: Create an attractive, comfortable and convenient public space that encourages customers to stay longer and increase engagement.
Contact Technical Consulting
Flexiiform specializes in providing highly technical design and construction solutions for tensile membrane structures, including the application of advanced analytical methods such as CFD. For detailed advice on your project, please contact our engineering team directly.
Contact information:
Company: Flexiiform
Website: https://flexiiform.vn
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