Author Description

A retractable roof structure is one in which all or part of the roof can be moved or drawn back within a short period of time. Small-sized retractable roof structures have existed for a long time, but the construction and world-wide spread of large-sized systems, for instance in sporting facilities, is a relatively recent phenomenon. Such structures have inherent advantages over conventional roofs but many of their features cannot be conceived or discussed using established architectural concepts, and some of the issues connected with them, including safety, cannot be handled by existing standards. Presenting state-of-the-art data, design guidelines and recommendations for retractable roof structures, this book is based on the findings of a working group established by the International Association of Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS). International in perspective, it contains discussion of two kinds of system: 1) Non-collapsible rigid frame type structures with rigid or flexible material stretched between frames and, 2) folding membrane types such as tents and pneumatics.