Design Engineer for Art Installation

TECHNICAL TASK (TT) for engineering calculation and development of design documentation for a modular art installation

1. Project description: A wooden architectural art installation in a cross shape (pavilion with seating areas). The base is a modular podium, the walls are frame/panel with decorative cutouts, and the roof consists of cross beams-braces. There is a 3D model in SketchUp.

2. Operating conditions (CRITICAL):

• Location: Gdańsk (Poland), open waterfront (high wind load).

• Surface: Historical cobblestone. Any anchoring, drilling, or damage to the surface is prohibited.

• Environmental impact: Exposure to outdoor conditions (rain, sun, wind) for 4+ days.

• Interaction: Open access for the public (people will walk on the podium, sit on benches, lean against the walls — resistance to vandalism and dynamic loads is required).

3. Geometry and Modularity: The structure must be disassemblable for transportation and have variable geometry in plan (3 assembly options):

• Option A (Maximum): 5040 x 6640 mm

• Option B (Medium): 5040 x 5040 mm

• Option C (Compact): 4640 x 4640 mm

• Feature: Changing dimensions is achieved by removing the outer sections of the podium. Accordingly, the upper cross beams must have a modular design (insert elements) to change their length for each assembly option.

4. Tasks for the structural engineer:

1. Stability calculation: Perform calculations for overturning and sliding due to wind load. Calculate the required mass and layout of hidden ballast inside the podium.

2. Strength calculation: Check the cross-sections of wooden elements of the walls, benches, and floor for operational loads (crowd weight).

3. Joint design: Develop rigid yet quick-assembly joints for:

   • Attaching walls to the podium.

   • Connecting modular segments of the upper beam (ensuring rigidity in bending and tension/compression).

4. Materials: Select optimal materials (moisture-resistant plywood, beams, metal fasteners) considering outdoor use and lightweight construction.

5. Documentation: Provide working drawings for production (files for CNC plywood cutting, lumber specification, list of metal products) and a step-by-step instruction/diagram for the assembly team.
   
   As part of the project, several Zoom meetings with the artist, cultural foundation, and production are mandatory, as well as an in-person meeting with the assembly team during the test assembly.