Engineers, Architects Eye Future of Glass Design

Glass engineering and design is increasingly taking center stage in office building design as owners and tenants search out security, energy-efficiency and attractive views.  This article notes that glass is becoming a greater structural element, shouldering more of the stress and strains than ever before.  New engineering strategies and technology are discussed, including:

• Tennis racket-like systems of cables holding glass panels;
• Structural steel tube frameworks using finger-like elements to grab glass panels at the corners;
• Triple-coated panels that reflect infrared light and reduce the level of heat entering a building; and
• The use of a laminate to transform a glass curtainwall panel into a photovoltaic cell.

Source: Paul Rosta, Commercial Property News; Sep 28, 2007