5 Steps to Fabric Structure Success

5 steps to a successful Fabric Structure experience

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Step 1. Do your research…then Design

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures

“It’s basically steel, fabric and cables, but its not as easy (or hard) as it looks”

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.)

 Design Developmentkey steps:

design only

design/build

plans and spec

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Form Finding 101

There is no substitute for a “hands on” approach…

Hypar

Cone

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Vault

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.)

STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS

•Structure’s response to loads

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.)

MEMBRANE ENGINEERING

• From 3D to 2D

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.)

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSISAssist in LEED certification

•Design Excellence•Energy & Atmosphere•Materials & Resource•Sustainable Sites•Environmental Quality

Designing Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.)

 In Designing Fabric Structures…

Form, Function, Fabric are one and the same

Architectural Fabric Structures

Vocabulary Building“If you want to walk the walk, its good to talk the talk”

Common Shapes and Forms:

•Mast Supported•Point Supported•Arch Supported •Frame Supported•Simple Saddle 

Forms and Uses of Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Mast-supported systems

Tent-like structures in form

One or several peaks supported by central poles and perimeter cables

Typically use compression ring or “bale” ring

Forms and Uses of Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Point-supported

Clear span avoids a center mast

Often hypar shaped (two high, two low connection points)

Utilizes an exterior frame or series of peripheral masts

Forms and Uses of Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Arch-supported

Introducing a curved compression member

Cross arches often used

Forms and Uses of Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Frame supported

Space frame

Fabric attached to a structural frame

Structural components carry forces

Fabric is purely used as a cladding

Forms and Uses of Architectural Fabric Structures (cont.) 

Simple Saddle/Hypar

Double curvature

Two (2) high points, Two (2) Low points

“Saddle” shape

Horizontal or Vertical

Minimal surfaces

Step 2. Pick the right fabric.

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Available Materials (cont.) 

Selecting the proper Fabric

“size does matter” 

Fabrics for Today and Tomorrow:

“the key is finding the right fabric for the right application”

Available Materials (cont.) 

Teflon Coated Fiberglass (PTFE) 

large scale permanent structures

Available Materials (cont.) 

Silicone, TiO2, Woven PTFE 

more pliable than standard PTFE

Available Materials (cont.) 

Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene (ETFE) 

if you’re looking for high transparency (97%)

Available Materials (cont.) 

Vinyl Coated Polyester (PVC/PVDF) 

most cost effective material for temporary and permanent structures

Available Materials (cont.) 

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

when you’re looking for shade only

Available Materials (cont.) 

Laminates, Lycra and Theatrical Draperies

The materials for tents, awnings, and interiors

Available Materials (cont.) 

The Future?

PV, custom fabrics, films and smart too!

Step 3. Pick the right components

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Components and Details 

Design and Engineering Criteria“The engineer’s and designer’s aesthetics”

Components and Details (cont.) 

Details custom

bridge or yacht

Less is more vs. Light is more

Components and Details (cont.) 

Base Plate

“get those anchor bolts right” 

Mast

cleats, clips and bale rings

Membrane Plate

the link and connector

Components and Details (cont.) 

Edge curve, cantenary or clamp

Tie downs connector to the ground

Components and Details (cont.) 

HardwareStainless steel, Galvanized or Custom finishes

“A Fabric Structure is made like a well tailored suit”

Step 4. Understand the process.

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

Steps to Success (cont.) 

Keep it simple… Design Drawings

Approvals (Design, Material, Cost)

Engineering

Reactions

Approvals (For Foundations by Others)

Details

Shop Drawings

Approvals

Order Material (structure, hardware, fabric)

Survey

Steps for Success (cont.) 

Patterning

Determine Fabric to be used

Establish seam width

Patterning

Determine reinforcements and

offsets

CAD/CAM cutting

Fabric Fabrication

fabrication drawings

purchasing material

fabrication

packaging

Steps to Success (cont.) 

Installations

weather permitting

site preparation

unloading materials

installing and tensioning

inspection and closeout

Steps for Success (cont.) 

Maintenance

routine cleaning (self-cleaning or “power” wash)

annual inspections

“fabric kits” and repairs

warranty vs life span

pay now, pay later or have a plan

Step 5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com

So how do YOU get started?

Create a team• Architect/Engineer/Designer• LEED Consultant• Tensile Membrane Consultant• Manufacturer/Contractor

A Tour of Fabric Structures

Walkway

Convention Centers

Retail

Hotels

Casinos

Covered Parking

Outdoor Dining

Signage

Theme Parks

Food Courts

Walkways

The use of colors

Urban

Waterfront

Recreation

Band shells

Interior sun shading

Exterior Sun Shading

Supermarkets

Farmers Market

Marquee

Parks and Recreation

Amphitheaters

New ConstructionRenovations

Playgrounds

Gas Stations

Grandstands

Walkways

Transit

Custom Umbrellas

Sports

Schools

Projected Images

Textile Facades

Thank You

Samuel J. Armijos, AIA, www.fabricarchitect.com