Challenge:
Hopper Engineering Associates was requested by the Client to evaluate an 18 ft. tall robotic figure made out of steel plating. The statue is displayed outdoors and is subjected to environmental loads. The statue is supported from the back with a frame constructed from tube sections.
Resolution:
A structural analysis program was used to model the main structural system. Design loads were applied to the statue in the model. Structural member sizes and connections were validated. Ballast and guy wires were specified to keep the 18 ft. statue from tipping over under the governing wind load.
