The ‘Innovation in Structural Engineering’ award recognises projects that demonstrate excellence in planning, modelling, analysing, designing, and delivering structures. Selected from a pool of 20 entries, Arup has been honoured for employing technical innovation.
Several structural challenges had to be overcome in the design of the project, the most difficult being the SkyPark cantilever – the longest of its kind in the world. Arup designed the structure to withstand strong winds and vibration caused by people movement, and to provide optimal comfort for guests. By combining innovative engineering approaches and 3D modeling technologies, Arup formulated a design that also allowed for safe and easy construction of 200m above ground and founded in deep marine clays.
One particular construction milestone involved the hoisting of the Sands SkyPark in one of the highest strand jacking operations ever undertaken in the world. This involved 14 individual lifts, with each component weighing up to 790 tonnes. The 340m superstructure, which weighs more than 7,000-tonnes, was designed using a unique combination of bridge and building technology. Since its opening on 24 June 2010, the Sands SkyPark has welcomed over 350,000 visitors to the Public Observation Deck alone.
Marina Bay Sands, the $5 billion, high-density, mixed-use integrated resort, celebrated its grand opening in Singapore on 23 June 2010, featuring three-acre grand SkyPark built atop the three hotel towers. This unique structural masterpiece has been designed by American architect Moshe Safdie.
Arup is responsible for multidisciplinary engineering including advanced works, infrastructure, structural, civil, fire and geotechnical engineering, traffic, façade and acoustic consulting and risk management.
The construction of Marina Bay Sands, a monumental feat involving 15,000 construction workers at its peak since 2007, has resulted in widespread media coverage, including 25 documentaries on its building process.
Bentley Systems Incorporated is a provider of comprehensive software solutions for the infrastructure. The 2010 Be Inspired Awards honour the extraordinary work of Bentley users in improving and sustaining the world’s infrastructure.
