Danish Cancer Center - An engineering challenge

Abstract

The Danish Cancer Center by architects Gehry Partners has presented the engineering team with a number of challenges. This paper describes primarily the challenges posed by the used of 450x450mm solid wooden members for a Mikado-like beam and column system, and the preservation of the existing historic building from 1908. These included developing a robust structural concept that allows the wooden members freedom to twist and crack over time. The paper also provides an insight into the extensive fire and building services engineering carried out. The use of BIM, in particular Revit Structure, for the fabrication drawings of more than 500 steel/wood connections, is also described.