Retractable cover for unusual patio configurations

July 1, 2008  |  Awnings & Canopies, Products

Problem: Large, irregularly shaped patio spaces are tough to cover with a system that is both rain-proof and retractable. Solution: The SHIELD retractable cover system from Arquati SolarPro becomes taut when fully extended, providing sun, wind and rain protection over unusual patio configurations. T…
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Retractable roof provides flexibility for shopping center

July 1, 2008  |  Awnings & Canopies, Fabric Structures, Projects

The local building codes in Maroussi, Athens, required open “plazas” and “streets” for this shopping center. The client requested a roof from Taiyo Europe that could be retracted to a fully open position within five minutes. Each side is driven by 13 engines along 13 arches of various length…
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Online awning advantages increase consumer awareness

July 1, 2008  |  Awnings & Canopies, Industry News

Many consumers aren’t aware of the role awnings can play in conserving energy and providing protection from solar fading and exposure. Glen Raven Custom Fabrics LLC and Somfy Systems Inc. hope to elevate consumer awareness about the benefits of awnings through a marketing program that will continu…
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Acrylic transfer adhesive used for tension membranes

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Products

For structural and decorative use, Unifilm® U802 from Scapa North America is an acrylic transfer adhesive used to attach architectural tension membranes to a wide variety of metal frames. It laminates well well to a variety of substrates, including low surface energy plastics and untreated polyolef…
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Triangles of cloth dress up German exhibition

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

Meyer created this site-specific art installation for the summer Rheinland Pfalz exhibition at Fort Malakow Park office building in Mainz, Germany. Triangles of cloth were stretched from one wall to the other in varying angles. The tilted diagonals brought a sense of lightness and movement to the re…
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Chinese gymnasium features double layer structure

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

This landmark gymnasium in the Minhang district of Shanghai provides a sheltered area for a variety of indoor sports. The main membrane is designed with a double layer structure; its upper layer is supported by arch framework and its lower layer is suspended through a top chord. The two ends of the …
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Tensile structures blend past and present

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

The Chaparral Water Treatment facility in Scottsdale, Ariz., boasts what is believed to be the largest installation of tensile structures of its kind in the area. The delicate engineering and the boldly stated shading system represents the nomadic desert dwellings of the past and the art and technol…
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Miragrid passes NTPEP evaluation

July 1, 2008  |  Geosynthetics, Industry News

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, in conjunction with the National Transportation Product Evaluation Panel (NTPEP), developed a stringent review process to test geosynthetic reinforcement materials. TenCate™ Geosynthetics, Pendergrass, Ga., submitted its Mirag…
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Digital printer prints photo-realistic outputs

July 1, 2008  |  Graphics, Products

The NanoJet UV True Flatbed digital printer uses the latest digital print technology to print outstanding photo-realistic outputs on both rigid and flexible materials. Using 24 Spectra high-performance print heads, the NanoJet prints at speeds of 220 sq. ft./hr. in photo-realistic mode, with a print…
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Weather-resistant Inkjet fabric

July 1, 2008  |  Graphics, Products

Problem: Consumers expect a fabric suitable for digital printing that shows off vibrant color and is appropriate both for outdoor pole banners exposed to high winds and flame-resistant, indoor point-of-purchase displays. Solution: The new inkjet fabric, Vivitex™ FR Banner, does it all. The durable…
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