Hypar Roof Project

Sunday, May 20, 2018

Comments: 1

Ramsay Maunder Associates (RMA) are working on the design/analysis of a hyperbolic paraboloid or hypar roof structure, a style that was popular some 50 years ago, for a client who is renovating and upgrading his home in the south east of the UK.

The following image shows a model of the hypar created by the client using stirring sticks from a popular high street coffee outlet.

hypar roof 01

The hypar roof is an interesting form in that it is a doubly-ruled surface (hence the ability to create models as shown above) and is doubly-curved. This means that, like the shell of an egg, it is rather strong in that it converts applied forces into membrane rather than bending stresses. Four paths across the surface are indicated in the figure. Two of these are straight lines whilst the other two are parabolas.

The project was initially offered to several major civil engineering consultancies including ARUP but with the client receiving no response to his enquiries, he looked elsewhere and after suitable research approached RMA.

Such out-of-the-ordinary projects are structurally rather challenging requiring the sort of expertise and attention to detail that RMA is well-placed to offer.

The timescale for the project is relaxed and the client is happy to consider timber or reinforced concrete solutions. RMA is very pleased to be involved with such projects and it is likely that the design and analysis process will ultimately be presented in the form of a Case Study to RMA's clients.

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  1. Cherry Morgan Cherry Morgan I came across your blog post discussing the fascinating hypar roof design, and I must say it's truly captivating. The concept of a doubly-ruled and doubly-curved surface is not only aesthetically pleasing but also remarkably strong, reminiscent of the strength exhibited by the shell of an egg.

    I found it intriguing that the hypar roof converts applied forces into membrane stresses rather than bending stresses, which speaks to its structural efficiency. The visual representation with four paths across the surface, including straight lines and parabolas, helped me grasp the concept more clearly.

    It's disappointing to hear that major civil engineering consultancies didn't respond to the client's inquiries initially. However, it's commendable that the client took the initiative to explore other options and ultimately found RMA after conducting thorough research.

    Thank you for sharing this unique and insightful information about the hypar roof design. It's a testament to the importance of seeking alternative solutions and finding expertise in unexpected places. Thursday, May 18, 2023

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