The luminous infinity loop above Vienna’s Votivkirche – our challenge:
To design structural verifications and a load-bearing system that would allow this artwork to hover safely, permanently, and with full approval between the neo-Gothic towers.
The approximately 28-meter-long aluminium structure had to be supported by a temporary scaffolding system positioned above the towers, permanently exposed to wind loads and the urban climate of Vienna. We analysed the wind effects from various inflow directions using 3D-CFD simulations (RWIND) and transferred the results to structural design calculations using RFEM. Special attention was paid to natural frequencies and vortex shedding at the windward-facing tubular profiles – a critical issue for safety and serviceability.
💡 Our scope of work included:
- Structural design in accordance with Eurocode
- Consideration of the flexibility of the temporary scaffold structures
- Realistic material assumptions, including thermal influence zones in aluminium
- Verification of safety and durability under urban wind turbulence
- Assessment of wind-induced vibrations affecting the towers of the Votivkirche
Wind analyses revealed that turbulence in the urban environment could lead to load increases of up to +20%. Accordingly, all structural elements were dimensioned and the required verifications for building approval were provided. In close coordination with MA 37 BB, the permit was granted in time for the start of installation. Simultaneously, the structure had to be fully trial assembled at the artistic metal workshop Wolfgang Markl GmbH, to prevent any unforeseen issues when mounting it at over 80 metres in height.
Location: Votivkirche, Rooseveltplatz, Vienna
Artist: Billi Thanner
Artistic Metalwork: Wolfgang Markl GmbH
Lighting Design: Lichtprojekt Aigner & Wöber GmbH
Rope Access Engineering: Seilkaiser
Photo © vertigohyeah
