Concepts advance innovation in reinforced concrete design
As with other structural systems, advances in reinforced concrete design depend on understanding materials and methods. The Quadracci Pavilion demonstrates how the project team proved the method's constructability by exploring and adapting some exceptional approaches to the complexity of unusual and changing concrete shapes.
Kissinger says he and others on the project gained insights throughout the design and construction process. "Several concepts I embraced and continue to apply came from working with Calatrava, in particular the idea of leaning elements that create the kind of counterbalance and symmetry we find in nature." He concludes that Milwaukee's modern masterpiece is a good example of aesthetics supported by the material and method, a unique canvas for innovation in structural design.
Structural engineers can benefit from similar case studies and the latest technical information provided by many top experts by attending workshops offered by the Department of Engineering Professional Development (EPD) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.