Solar Stretch

by J�rg Schlaich, (M.ASCE), Schlaich, Bergermann & Partners, Structural Consultants, Hohenzollern Str. 1, D-70178 Stuttgart, Germany,
Rudolf Bergermann, Schlaich, Bergermann & Partners, Structural Consultants, Hohenzollern Str. 1, D-70178 Stuttgart, Germany,
Wolfgang Schiel, Schlaich, Bergermann & Partners, Structural Consultants, Hohenzollern Str. 1, D-70178 Stuttgart, Germany,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1994, Vol. 64, Issue 5, Pg. 47-50


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Extrapolating from structural work with textile or metal membrane roofs to cover silos, assembly halls and sports stadia, Schlaich, Bergermann and Partners, a structural engineering firm in Stuttgart, Germany, has developed a new type of solar concentrator using a single stretched metal membrane. Simpler and less costly to construct than previous methods, this concentrator could make possible small-scale solar power generation for much less than photovoltaic technology and at a cost comparable to diesel generators and also advance large-scale solar electricity generation. Solar energy use deserves the engagement of civil engineers and holds a large potential for future work in a wide variety of areas.

Subject Headings: Solar power | Metals (material) | Membranes | Electric power | Structural engineering | Silos | Roofs

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