Challenge:
Our client requested we analyze ten unique letter structures to form a sign to be used during a temporary travelling sporting event.The letters, roughly 8′-0″ tall and varying between 2′-0″ and 20′-0″ in width will be used outdoors and are subjected to both wind and seismic loading. Each letter consisted of steel tubing and steel plating. The center of each letter consisted of LED panels to project a video image. A saddle and multiple pipes and clamps were used to attach the letters to a truss substructure. The following video shows the sign in use:
Resolution:
To analyze the structural adequacy of the elevated letters, the steel tubes, plates, and saddles were modeled into a commercially available structural modeling program. Temporary structure design Seismic wind loads were applied. The saddles, connections, members, plates, and deflections were all checked against their code allowable limits. In addition, to meet our client’s deadlines, multiple engineers were utilized to finish the project on schedule and within budget.
